The Cleveland Browns have made a significant change in their coaching staff by appointing Todd Monken as their new head coach. This decision comes after the team parted ways with Kevin Stefanski, following a disappointing 5-12 season. Monken is stepping into his first head-coaching role in the NFL at the age of 59.
Todd Monken: A Journey to Head Coach
Todd Monken previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens for three years. Prior to that, he spent three seasons at the University of Georgia under head coach Kirby Smart. Monken’s coaching career at the NCAA level includes a stint as head coach at Southern Miss from 2013 to 2015.
Performance with the Ravens
During his time with the Ravens, Monken faced challenges, especially with star quarterback Lamar Jackson’s injury, which limited his playtime. Despite this, the Ravens managed to score 424 points throughout the season, ranking 11th in the NFL. However, a critical loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the final week led to the team missing the playoffs, contributing to head coach John Harbaugh’s departure.
Cleveland’s Coaching Changes
- Former Coach: Kevin Stefanski
- Previous Season Record: 5-12
- Quarterbacks Used: 13 (including 7 in the past two seasons)
- Baker Mayfield: Released in 2022
- Deshaun Watson: Acquired from Houston (5 draft picks, 3 first-rounders)
- Watson’s Performance: 19 games played, 9-10 record, 19 TDs, 12 interceptions, 80.7 passer rating
- Injury Status: Did not play this season due to a torn Achilles tendon
The Browns have two first-round selections in the upcoming NFL draft: the sixth overall pick and the 24th pick, initially owned by the Jacksonville Jaguars. With the hiring of Monken, Cleveland becomes the eighth NFL franchise to announce a new head coach this off-season. Only the Arizona Cardinals and the Las Vegas Raiders are still looking to fill their head-coaching vacancies.
