Browns linked to ascending Texans coach to replace Jim Schwartz as DC

The Cleveland Browns, after hiring Todd Monken to be their new head coach, were met with some unfortunate news.

Jim Schwartz, the award-winning defensive coordinator, was upset and didn't want to coach the defense anymore. Not long after Monken's deal was final, Schwartz handed in his resignation.

With a dire need for a new defensive coordinator, ESPN's Dan Graziano links the Browns to an ascending coach from the Houston Texans for their new DC job. This Texans coach would be a great hire, and this report is some good news for the Browns.

Browns linked to Texans defensive coach for DC job

"In the meantime, one of the names to watch for defensive coordinator in Cleveland is Texans defensive passing game coordinator Cory Undlin, who worked with Monken as part of Jack Del Rio's staff in Jacksonville a decade and a half ago," Graziano reports.

Cory Undlin is a big part of the Texans' defense, one that was ranked among the best in the NFL this past season. Their pass defense was incredible, as their defensive backs played great, with multiple accolades coming for the Texans' secondary.

He's also worked with Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Walker in Houston, two of the best defensive linemen in the NFL. Coming to Cleveland with Myles Garrett wouldn't be unfamiliar territory for Undlin.

While Texans' cornerback coach Dino Vasso was also an option, he's no longer on the table as he's signed an extension with the Texans this offseason.

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But Undlin, who's been in the NFL for a long time, is on the rise after helping the Texans' defense turn into one of the best in the NFL this past season.

They've been a good unit lately, and Undlin has been a factor. Cleveland turning to him to be their new defensive coordinator wouldn't be a bad option.

His only experience as a defensive coordinator in the NFL came with the Detroit Lions in 2020, when they were ranked last in points and yards allowed. But with a much better Browns defense, things would likely go a lot better.

For now, nothing is done, but of the defensive coordinator options this offseason, Undlin is a strong candidate for the Browns job thanks to his link to Monken and the Texans' defense's strong performance this past season.

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