The Cleveland Browns’ head coaching search may have created a ripple effect that could put former Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz back on the NFL carousel — and possibly back in Detroit.

According to multiple reports, the Browns are expected to hire former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken as their next head coach, passing over current defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. That decision reportedly left Schwartz frustrated.

NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that Schwartz was “upset at being passed over” and told fellow coaches he does not plan to return to Cleveland, despite being under contract for the 2026 season.

Following that report, Lions fans quickly took to social media to ask one big question:

Should the Detroit Lions consider bringing Jim Schwartz back?

---

Jim Schwartz’s History With the Detroit Lions

Lions fans remember Schwartz well. He served as Detroit’s head coach from 2009 to 2013 and helped guide the franchise through one of the most important rebuilds in team history.

Schwartz’s tenure in Detroit:

Took over after the infamous 0–16 season in 2008

Led Detroit to a 10–6 record and a playoff berth in 2011

Finished with a 29–51 regular-season record

Coached one postseason game (2011 Wild Card loss)

While his time in Detroit ended in 2013, Schwartz helped restore toughness and credibility to a franchise that desperately needed it.

---

Why Jim Schwartz Could Make Sense for the Lions Now

Detroit’s defense under coordinator Kelvin Sheppard showed promise in 2025 but struggled against elite offenses late in the season. While Sheppard is not on the hot seat, the Lions must take another step forward defensively to become a true Super Bowl contender.

Schwartz recently won AP Assistant Coach of the Year after leading one of the NFL’s top-ranked defenses in Cleveland. His résumé includes:

Elite pass-rush design

Super Bowl experience (Super Bowl LII with the Eagles)

Veteran leadership in playoff environments

Familiarity with Detroit’s culture and expectations

Rather than replacing Sheppard, Detroit could explore adding Schwartz in a senior defensive role — similar to how Dan Campbell added Mike Kafka to elevate the offense.

---

The Potential Problem: Dan Campbell and Jim Schwartz Fit

This is where things become complicated.

Both Campbell and Schwartz are intense personalities. Sometimes that creates elite results. Other times, it can lead to friction.

Campbell has built a staff focused on collaboration, emotional intelligence, and modern leadership. Schwartz’s old-school, fiery approach may not perfectly align with the current locker room tone — especially after years of building unity and stability.

There is also a contractual issue. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Schwartz remains under contract with Cleveland. The Browns can block any lateral coordinator move unless it is for a head coaching job.

---

The Big Question for the Detroit Lions

Would Dan Campbell be willing to bring back a former Lions head coach to help build a championship-level defense?

Would Schwartz accept a supporting role after being passed over for another head coaching opportunity?

And most importantly…

Would it make the Detroit Lions better?

From a football standpoint, Schwartz’s defensive expertise is hard to deny. From a culture and chemistry standpoint, the fit is far more complicated.

One thing is certain: as long as the Lions are chasing the final leap from contender to champion, Jim Schwartz’s name will continue to be linked to Detroit.