The Cleveland Browns’ head coaching search has created an interesting ripple effect that could once again put former Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz on the NFL carousel.
According to multiple reports, Cleveland is set to hire former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken as its next head coach, passing over current defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz in the process. And that decision has reportedly left Schwartz frustrated.
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that Schwartz was “upset at being passed over” and told coaches he does not plan on returning to Cleveland, even though he remains under contract for the 2026 season.
Ever since that report surfaced, many Lions fans have jumped on social message to ask the following question:
Should the Lions consider bringing Jim Schwartz back?
Schwartz’s History in Detroit
Lions fans remember Schwartz well. He served as Detroit’s head coach from 2009 to 2013, guiding the franchise through one of its most dramatic turnarounds in modern history.
- Took over after the 0–16 season in 2008
- Led Detroit to a 10–6 record and playoff berth in 2011
- Finished with a 29–51 regular season record
- Coached one postseason game (2011 Wild Card loss)
While his tenure ended in 2013, Schwartz helped restore toughness and credibility to a franchise that desperately needed it.
Why He Could Make Sense Now
Detroit’s defense under new coordinator Kelvin Sheppard showed flashes in 2025 but struggled against elite offenses late in the season. While Sheppard is not on the hot seat, the Lions clearly need another jump to become a true Super Bowl-caliber defense.
Schwartz, who recently won AP Assistant Coach of the Year and coordinated one of the NFL’s top-ranked defenses in Cleveland, brings:
- Proven elite pass rush design
- Championship experience (Super Bowl LII with Eagles)
- Veteran leadership in high-pressure playoff environments
- Familiarity with Detroit’s culture and expectations
The idea wouldn’t necessarily be replacing Sheppard — but rather exploring a senior defensive role similar to how Dan Campbell brought in Mike Kafka to elevate the offense.
The Complication: Dan Campbell Fit
This is where things get tricky.
Schwartz is intense. Campbell is intense. Sometimes that works beautifully. Sometimes it clashes.
Campbell has built a staff around collaboration, emotional intelligence, and modern leadership. Schwartz’s old-school, fiery style might not mesh seamlessly with the current locker room tone — especially after the Lions worked so hard to build unity and stability.
There’s also the reality that Cleveland can block a lateral move. As ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted, Schwartz remains under contract, and the Browns can prevent coordinator-level departures unless it’s a head coaching job.
The Big Question
Would Dan Campbell consider bringing back a former Lions head coach to help elevate a championship defense?
Would Schwartz even want a supporting role after being passed over for another head coaching opportunity?
And most importantly…
Would it make the Lions better?
From a pure football standpoint, it’s hard to argue against Schwartz’s defensive acumen. From a culture and chemistry standpoint, the fit is far more complex.
One thing is certain: Jim Schwartz’s name will be connected to Detroit again as long as the Lions are chasing that final leap from contender to champion.
