Cleveland Browns Finalize 2026 Coaching Staff

New defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg joins head coach Todd Monken's team.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns have finalized their coaching staff for the 2026 NFL season, with the hiring of Mike Rutenberg as the new defensive coordinator. Rutenberg joins head coach Todd Monken, who is entering his third season leading the Browns.

Why it matters

The Browns are looking to build on their progress from the previous season and make a push for the playoffs. Finalizing the coaching staff is a key step in preparing the team for the upcoming year.

The details

Rutenberg comes to the Browns after serving as the defensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons. He will be tasked with improving a Browns defense that struggled at times in 2025. Monken is entering his third season as the Browns' head coach after leading the team to a 9-7 record last year.

  • The Browns announced Rutenberg's hiring on February 16, 2026.

The players

Mike Rutenberg

The new defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns, joining the team after serving in the same role with the Atlanta Falcons.

Todd Monken

The head coach of the Cleveland Browns, entering his third season with the team.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited to join the Browns and work with Todd and the rest of the coaching staff to build a championship-caliber defense.”

— Mike Rutenberg, Defensive Coordinator (wn.com)

“Mike is a great addition to our staff, and I'm confident he'll help us take the next step as a team.”

— Todd Monken, Head Coach (wn.com)

What’s next

The Browns will now turn their attention to the upcoming NFL Draft, where they will look to add talent to both the offense and defense.

The takeaway

With the coaching staff now in place, the Browns are poised to build on their progress from last season and make a push for the playoffs in 2026.