Jim Schwartz. Jeff Lange / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Three ideal landing spots for Jim Schwartz in 2027

By Colton Edwards | Last updated Feb 7, 2026 9:13 AM ET

Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz has resigned from the organization. The veteran NFL coach produced several top-10 defenses for the team over the years.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Schwartz "is likely to sit out" the 2026 season, supposedly because there are only two other defensive coordinator openings (Las Vegas Raiders and Arizona Cardinals) remaining and he is likely seeking a role with a playoff contender.

If Schwartz does sit out the 2026 season and return in 2027, here are three potential landing spots for the experienced coach:

Detriot Lions

Could Schwartz return to the Lions as defensive coordinator? With current DC Kelvin Sheppard facing pressure due to an underperforming and declining defense in 2025, this could be an interesting opportunity.

The Lions defense ranked 22nd in scoring and was inconsistent throughout the season. Current Lions head coach Dan Campbell and Schwartz would complement each other well.

Los Angeles Rams

The Rams' current defensive coordinator, Chris Shula, interviewed for multiple head-coaching jobs this cycle, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Las Vegas Raiders, Baltimore Ravens and others.

With another year under Sean McVay for Shula and another top-performing defense, he would likely be gone, and the Rams will be looking for a new defensive coordinator. Schwartz would have a young and rising defensive front to work with.

Carolina Panthers

Like the Rams scenario, current Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero has been a potential head-coaching candidate, having interviewed with the Raiders and Steelers.

Since 2023, he has had a top-10 defense, a top-15 defense and one season with a below-average defense due to injuries. He is highly respected around the league and has been a sought-after candidate during coaching searches. If he were to take another position after the 2026 season, the Panthers would be smart to poach a veteran coordinator.

Colton Edwards

Colton Edwards graduated from the United States Sports University in 2023. He brings three years and counting of college football personnel experience (Tennessee Tech 2024-2025 and currently at Western Michigan). Before joining Yardbarker, he brings vast experience as an NFL Draft Analyst from FanSided, Prime Time Sports Talk, and First Round Mock

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