In the midst of a groundbreaking season for the Baltimore Ravens offense, coordinator Todd Monken finds himself at the center of head coaching rumors. Sources indicate that Monken, the mastermind behind the Ravens’ league-leading attack, will interview for the top jobs with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Chicago Bears this week – just days before Baltimore’s critical divisional round playoff matchup with the Buffalo Bills.
Monken’s Meteoric Rise
Under Monken’s guidance, the Ravens offense has reached unprecedented heights in his second year with the team:
- No. 1 ranked offense in the NFL for the first time in franchise history
- 424.9 yards per game, tops in the league
- 4,000+ passing yards and 3,000+ rushing yards, an NFL first
Monken has also been instrumental in unlocking the full potential of star quarterback Lamar Jackson. The former MVP posted career-bests in passing yards (4,172) and touchdowns (41) while limiting his interceptions to a mere four.
It’s a compliment to this organization – our players and our coaches – that other organizations have an interest in myself or any of our coaches.
– Todd Monken, Ravens Offensive Coordinator
Unfortunate Timing?
While the head coaching interest is certainly flattering, the timing is far from perfect. NFL rules stipulate that coaches on playoff teams can only interview in the days following the wild card round and before the divisional games – a short and intense window.
Monken himself acknowledged the challenges, calling the interview scheduling setup “unfortunate.” Still, he emphasized that his focus is squarely on game-planning for the Buffalo Bills this Sunday.
A Delicate Balancing Act
Pursuing an NFL head coaching dream while simultaneously preparing for the playoffs requires a deft touch. Monken insisted that the virtual interviews with Jacksonville and Chicago did not detract from his work on the Bills, noting that much of the preparation for those meetings was done in the offseason.
So, all of my focus last week was on the Steelers, and all of my focus this week is on the Bills. I love the job I have – I really do, and I have a great job here.
– Todd Monken
For now, Monken and the Ravens are lasered in on Buffalo and their quest for a Super Bowl title. But the coaching carousel will certainly be one to watch, as Monken’s dynamic offense has thrust him to the forefront of the head coaching conversation. Organizations in need of an offensive jolt will undoubtedly have Monken high on their list of candidates.
Looking Ahead
As the playoffs unfold and the coaching searches heat up, here are some key storylines to follow:
- Will the Ravens’ postseason success boost Monken’s stock even further?
- How will the interview process impact Baltimore’s preparations and performance?
- Which other top assistants will emerge as prime head coaching candidates?
- Can the Jaguars and Bears sell Monken on their respective opportunities?
The coming weeks will be pivotal – not just for the Ravens’ Super Bowl hopes, but also for Todd Monken’s future as an NFL head coach. His innovative schemes have revolutionized Baltimore’s attack and caught the eye of multiple front offices. Now, it’s a matter of timing, fit, and focus as Monken navigates the high-stakes playoffs and the allure of larger roles elsewhere.
