Browns DC Jim Schwartz throws tantrum after getting passed up for HC

[ASFN Admin]

The Cleveland Browns opted to name Todd Monken as their next head coach over defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz and Los Angeles Rams passing game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase.

When the Browns informed Schwartz of this news, however, he did not handle the news well. According to just about every NFL insider, Schwartz was overly reactionary to being notified that he did not get the gig, told his staff he would not be back in Cleveland in 2026, and started to say his goodbyes. There are a couple of issues with this, however.

After the Browns informed DC Jim Schwartz this morning they were passing him over to hire Todd Monken as head coach, Schwartz was visibly upset, said goodbyes in the building and told other coaches he’s not coming back, sources tell The Insiders.

Schwartz is under contract and… pic.twitter.com/GBEct9BRPB

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 28, 2026

For starters, Schwartz is still under contract through the 2026 season. This means the Browns can decline any interview request for a lateral move with another NFL team. The Browns would have to let Schwartz out of his deal in order for him to interview elsewhere. Given how messy this process has been with Schwartz's agent leaking out leverage pieces throughout the hiring process, the Browns may not be willing to play ball with their current defensive coordinator.

NFL insiders are also reporting Cleveland's desire to retain Schwartz as well. There is a solid chance all of this ends in a contract renegotiation to make Schwartz among the NFL's highest-paid defensive coordinators in the NFL.

This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Browns DC Jim Schwartz throws tantrum after getting passed up for HC

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