Todd Monken hired as Browns coach, blitz Lamar Jackson

Todd Monken, the former offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, has officially begun his tenure as head coach of the Cleveland Browns, setting up a compelling rivalry with his former star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. The move, confirmed this week, ensures Monken will face the Ravens and Jackson at least twice each season within the AFC North.

Monken, who spent the past three seasons orchestrating Baltimore's offense, acknowledged Jackson's role in his career advancement. In an interview, Monken said Jackson is a tremendous person and stated he would not have the Cleveland job without him. The quarterback sent Monken a congratulatory text after the hire, to which Monken replied with a mix of gratitude and playful antagonism. He recounted telling Jackson, "Go f yourself. We are going to blitz you every third down." Monken said Jackson laughed at the remark, indicating a mutual respect persists despite their new competitive dynamic.

Their partnership in Baltimore was highly productive. Under Monken's guidance in 2023, Jackson won his second NFL MVP award, and the quarterback followed with a career-best passing season in 2024. However, the Ravens' 2025 campaign was derailed...