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Jim Schwartz came up short in Cleveland's head coaching search, which ultimately led to his departure from the Browns after two seasons as defensive coordinator.
The Browns entered the offseason looking for a replacement after dismissing Kevin Stefanski, and Schwartz quickly emerged as a leading candidate after overseeing one of the NFL's top defenses.
Ultimately, however, ownership elected to hire former Baltimore Ravens Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken.
Now, Schwartz is opening up about the split with the Browns.
Schwartz discussed his messy departure during an appearance on the "Ryan Ripken Show," shedding light on a decision that followed Cleveland's search for a new head coach.
Jim Schwartz explained why he left the Browns, revealing why staying under new head coach Todd Monken was never realistic. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images) ((Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images))
While Schwartz said he understood the organization's decision, he also made clear that remaining on Monken's staff was never a realistic option.
"They wanted to go with an offensive guy. They chose Todd. I'm fine with that," Schwartz said. "They can make, you know, decisions that they want to make. But they can't expect me to stay on board for that."
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After believing he had earned consideration for the top job, Schwartz viewed a return to his previous role as an untenable situation.
"Anybody that's in any business, you get passed over for a promotion, when you've done a really, really good job in your job, and you think you were in line for that promotion, it's time to go," Schwartz said.
The veteran coach suggested the arrangement would have created an awkward dynamic from the outset.
Rather than attempt to make the situation work, he opted for a clean break.
"A forced marriage isn't gonna work in the NFL," Schwartz said.
Todd Monken speaks to the media after being introduced as head coach of the Cleveland Browns during a press conference at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus in Berea, Ohio, on Feb. 3, 2026. (Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
Head coach Todd Monken of the Cleveland Browns looks on during a voluntary veteran minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus in Berea, Ohio, on April 21, 2026. (Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
He also questioned whether he could have effectively maintained his authority within the building after the hiring decision.
"I didn't feel like I could do my job after getting passed over for that coaching job," he added.
Schwartz ultimately resigned from his position and, because of the terms of his contract, will spend the upcoming season away from the sidelines.
Cleveland has since turned to Mike Rutenberg to lead the defense as Monken begins his tenure as head coach.
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Whether the Browns made the right decision will ultimately be determined on the field.
What Schwartz made clear is that once Cleveland chose Monken, his own decision was already made.
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