The Baltimore Ravens are familiar with coordinators pursuing head-coaching roles, and it seems another one may soon be in the mix.
On Tuesday, the New York Jets became the first team this season to fire their head coach, parting ways with Robert Saleh after just over three seasons. Saleh wraps up his time with the Jets with a 20-36 record, including a 2-3 start this season. The Jets recently fell to the Minnesota Vikings 23-17 in London.
Whenever a team dismisses its coach, the immediate question arises regarding potential replacements. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler highlighted Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken as a candidate to watch for the Jets’ head coaching position. “You have to consider the offensive side of the football,” Fowler stated on “SportsCenter.” He also mentioned other hot prospects, including Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and Houston Texans play-caller Bobby Slowik, noting that Monken has been performing exceptionally well in Baltimore.
After leading Georgia to back-to-back national championships, Monken returned to the NFL in 2023, taking over from Greg Roman as the Ravens’ offensive play-caller. Under his leadership, the offense has made significant improvements, rising from 16th in total yards in 2022 to sixth in 2023, and improving from 19th in scoring to fourth. While Lamar Jackson’s health has certainly contributed to this success, Monken’s more balanced strategy has been a refreshing change.
Currently, the Ravens rank first in total yards and second in scoring. Monken’s offense has needed to be exceptional, given the struggles of the defense; without his contributions, Baltimore’s situation could be much more challenging.
However, no team can formally interview Monken until the Ravens’ season concludes, so this isn’t an immediate concern. Still, it may become a noteworthy narrative as next offseason approaches.
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