The Cleveland Browns have hired Todd Monken, formerly the Baltimore Ravens’ offensive coordinator, as their new head coach, replacing Kevin Stefanski who was fired after a 5-12 season.
Hiring Details
Sources including ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirmed the Browns’ agreement with Monken on January 28, 2026, marking his first NFL head coaching role. Monken, who turns 60 on February 5, previously served as the Browns’ offensive coordinator in 2019 under Freddie Kitchens. He interviewed twice with Cleveland (January 10 and 20) and was a finalist alongside defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz and Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase.
This move leaves the New York Giants, under new head coach John Harbaugh (formerly of the Ravens), seeking an offensive coordinator, as Monken opted for the head job over joining them.
Background and Coaching History
Monken brings over three decades of experience across college and NFL levels.
- College Highlights: Offensive coordinator at Georgia Bulldogs (2020-2022), powering back-to-back national titles; led Oklahoma State to school records in offense (2011-2012); head coach at Southern Miss (2013-2015) with a 13-25 record, including a 9-5 season and Conference USA Coach of the Year award.
- NFL Roles: Ravens OC (2023-2025), with top-ranked offenses including league-leading 4,000+ passing and 3,000+ rushing yards in 2024; Browns OC (2019, 6-10 record); Buccaneers OC (2016-2018, led NFL in passing yards in 2018); Jaguars WR coach (2007-2010).
| Recent Ravens OC Record [9] | Regular Season | Playoffs |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 8-9 | 0-0 |
| 2024 | 12-5 | 1-1 |
| 2023 | 13-4 | 1-1 |
Browns Context
Cleveland finished 8-26 over the past two seasons, last making playoffs in 2023.GM Andrew Berry emphasized offensive investment and quarterback input for the new coach.QB Deshaun Watson, sidelined in 2025 by a 2024 Achilles injury, returns alongside rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.The Browns hold the No. 6 and 24 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft (10 total picks). It’s unclear if Monken retains DC Jim Schwartz.
