Todd Monken Browns era begins as Cleveland hires the former Ravens OC to rescue their offense after a dismal 5-12 season and Kevin Stefanski firing.
Todd Monken Browns: The Hiring Details
League sources confirm the Todd Monken marriage: 59‑year‑old Monken, Ravens OC 2023–2025, replaces Stefanski (fired Jan. 5 post 8-26 skid). Monken returns to Cleveland, where he was OC in 2019 under Freddie Kitchens.
Among finalists Schwartz, Scheelhaase, Udinski, Lynn—Monken edged out after exhaustive interviews. His hire thwarts Giants OC expectations under new HC Harbaugh.
Todd Monken’s Proven Track Record
Todd Monken gains a 30+ year veteran: USM HC (2013–15, C-USA COY 9-5 bowl), Bucs OC (2016–18), UGA OC (2020–22 back‑to‑back titles).
Ravens tenure shone: No. 1 offense 2024; Lamar Jackson’s 2nd MVP 2023, career highs 4,172 pass yds/41 TDs 2024. Despite 2025 red zone woes (27th), his schemes elevated Baltimore.
Prior NFL HC buzz: Chargers/Panthers 2023, Jags/Bears 2024.
Challenges: Reviving Todd Monken Browns Offense
Todd Monken inherits NFL’s worst scoring (15.8 PPG last 2 yrs); Rees/O’Shea departed. QB room: Achilles‑recovering Watson ($80M cap hit), rookies Gabriel/Sanders.
Berry promises “significant investment”; Monken influences QB calls. Picks 6th/24th overall aid rebuild.
Defense elite (fewest yds 3 yrs, Garrett DPOY fave 23 sacks). Retain Schwartz? Haslam wants; Berry leaves to Monken.
Todd Monken Browns: Coaching Carousel Context
Stefanski (2x COY, 2 playoffs) joins Falcons HC. 10 HC openings filled bar Cards/Raiders.
Todd Monken marks franchise’s 19th coach since 1999 (2nd‑most after Raiders). Monken builds staff per Rooney Rule.
Why Todd Monken Browns Makes Sense
Monken’s playcalling elevated Mayfield 2019, Jackson later. UGA success proves schematic genius. Hard‑driving style fits Browns’ grit.
Optimism: Top defense + proven OC could unlock Watson or draft stud. Todd Monken aims to end 18‑yr playoff drought (last 2023).