Browns hire Jim Schwartz as defensive coordinator
CLEVELAND (AP) – The Cleveland Browns are hiring former Detroit Lions coach Jim Schwartz as defensive coordinator, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press on Tuesday.
Schwartz, who spent the past two seasons as a defensive consultant at Tennessee, was one of four candidates to meet with the Browns. He previously worked with Browns general manager Andrew Berry in Cleveland.
Cleveland’s search for a coordinator began last week when coach Kevin Stefanski fired Joe Woods after three seasons, which ended with a disappointing 7-10 in 2022.
Schwartz, 56, began his NFL career as a scout with Cleveland in the 1990s. He will take over the Browns’ defense once he signs his contract, according to the person who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because that hasn’t happened yet.
Schwartz has previously worked as a coordinator with the Titans, Bills and Eagles. He won a Super Bowl with Philadelphia’s defense in 2017.
One of Schwartz’s top priorities will be fixing Cleveland’s defense. The Browns allowed 135 yards per game.
In 2009, Schwartz inherited an 0-16 Lions team. He went 29-51 in five seasons and led Detroit to the playoffs in his third year.
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