The Cleveland Browns are in the process of narrowing down their head-coaching search, currently considering five potential candidates. With the need to interview another minority or woman to comply with the Rooney Rule, the organization is working diligently to finalize their choice. The situation has brought attention to the future of Jim Schwartz, the current defensive coordinator.
Three of the candidates being considered have offensive backgrounds, while two—Grant Udinski and Nathan Scheelhaase—are young first-time candidates. Retaining Schwartz could be beneficial for the Browns, especially if they choose to hire a new head coach who would likely want to revamp the defensive structure.
One potential internal replacement for Schwartz is safeties coach Ephraim Banda. Mary Kay Cabot from Cleveland.com highlights Banda’s qualifications, noting that he has previously interviewed for defensive coordinator roles with the Jets and Cowboys, and remains a candidate for the Browns’ defensive coordinator position should Schwartz depart. Since becoming safeties coach in 2023, Banda has contributed to the team allowing the third-fewest passing yards per game and fostering standout performances from players like Grant Delpit.
Banda, 44, brings considerable experience from his previous coaching positions at Miami (Florida) and Utah State and was also involved in defensive coordinator interviews with the Colts and other teams during this hiring cycle.
Despite Schwartz still being under contract, there are questions about his future with the team. It’s possible he may seek other opportunities, especially since the focus appears to be on younger candidates for the head coaching role. If the Browns do hire a new head coach, it’s likely they would want to build their own coaching staff, which adds to the uncertainty regarding Schwartz’s position.
Throughout his three years with the organization, Schwartz has demonstrated his capabilities, and many believe he deserves serious consideration for the top coaching role. Nevertheless, the dynamics of the situation, including his history of being passed over, could complicate his prospects for a promotion. Ultimately, the Browns’ upcoming decisions could significantly impact the structure and performance of their defense in the years to come. As the team continues its search, fans will be watchful for how these changes unfold.