As a defensive-minded coach who emphasizes strong defensive line play, Schwartz is known to build his units around dominant interior linemen.

[2] Schwartz was a four-year letterman at linebacker for the Hoyas of Georgetown University, where he earned his degree in economics.

[5] In January 2008, he interviewed for head coaching positions with the Washington Redskins,[6] Miami Dolphins[7] and Atlanta Falcons.

[8] Adam Schefter reported on January 15, 2009, that the Detroit Lions had decided to hire Schwartz as head coach.

[10] The 2009 season was Schwartz's first as Detroit's head coach and he posted a 2–14 record, with victories coming against the Washington Redskins and the Cleveland Browns.

[12] In 2011, the Lions returned to the postseason for the first time since 1999, clinching a playoff berth following a 38–10 victory over the San Diego Chargers.

The Bills ended the season fourth in the NFL in points and yards allowed per game with 18.1 and 312.2, respectively, while ranking third in takeaways with 30.

[25] On October 6, Schwartz declined the opportunity to replace Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle.

[26] On January 19, 2016, Schwartz was hired by the Philadelphia Eagles to be their defensive coordinator under coach Doug Pederson.

[29] On January 7, 2021, Schwartz announced that he was going to step away from coaching due to health issues and resigned from the Eagles.