Cleveland Browns Hire Jim Schwartz for Defensive Coordinator

The Cleveland Browns' search for a new defensive coordinator has come to an end. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the team will hire former Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz.

The #Browns are hiring Jim Schwartz as their defensive coordinator, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 17, 2023

Schwartz is most famous for his time as head coach of the Lions from 2009 to 2013, where he compiled a middling 29-51 record but brought the team its first playoff appearance since 1999. He has served as a senior defensive assistant for the Tennesse Titans since 2021.

Schwartz's time as the face of a franchise didn't go great, but he has a proven track record of success as a defensive coach. Including his years as a DC with the Tennesse Titans, the Buffalo Bills, and Philadelphia Eagles, he has coached six defenses to top-10 finishes in yards allowed, including in the Eagles' 2017 Super Bowl-winning season.

Schwartz has nearly 30 years of NFL experience as a scout, assistant, and coach. He's unlikely to suddenly and radically transform the Browns defense, but he's a steady hand that can gradually increase their discipline and professionalism. They should improve on this year's 20th ranking in points allowed in the 2023 season.