Jim Schwartz resigned as Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator on Friday, the team announced. Schwartz submitted his resignation letter on Thursday.
The Browns thanked Schwartz for his contributions over three seasons and said their search for a new defensive coordinator would begin immediately.
Schwartz, 59, was a finalist for the Browns' head coaching vacancy but was passed over in favor of Todd Monken, who was hired from the Baltimore Ravens. This marked the second time Schwartz had been considered for Cleveland's head coaching position, having also been a candidate in 2020 when Kevin Stefanski was hired.
Under Schwartz's leadership from 2023-2025, the Browns fielded one of the NFL's top defenses. Cleveland allowed the fewest yards in the league during that span. Myles Garrett won Defensive Player of the Year twice under Schwartz, including this season after breaking the NFL single-season sack record.
Schwartz remains under contract with the Browns through 2026, which could prevent him from joining another team as defensive coordinator this season. He previously served as Detroit Lions head coach from 2009-2013, posting a 29-51 record, and won Super Bowl LII as Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator.
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