Browns Closing In on Defensive Coordinator Hire

Todd Monken interviews top candidates Cory Undlin and Mike Rutenberg, could make decision in next day or two

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken is in the final stages of hiring a new defensive coordinator, conducting in-person interviews this weekend with top candidates Cory Undlin, the Texans' passing game coordinator, and Mike Rutenberg, the Falcons' passing game coordinator. Monken is also considering internal candidates Jason Tarver, the Browns' linebackers coach, and Ephraim Banda, the safeties coach, with Tarver seen as the stronger internal option. Monken could make his decision on the new defensive coordinator within the next day or two.

Why it matters

The Browns' defensive coordinator hire is a critical decision as the team looks to build on a strong 2025 season and make a deep playoff run. The new coordinator will be tasked with leading a defense that finished near the top of the league in several key categories last year under Jim Schwartz, who left to become the Steelers' head coach.

The details

Cory Undlin, 54, has NFL coordinator experience, having called the defense for the Lions in 2020. He also has familiarity with the Browns' system, having worked under Romeo Crennel from 2005-08, and with Monken from their time together in Jacksonville. Mike Rutenberg, 51, has 15 years of NFL experience, including the past four seasons as the Jets' linebackers coach where he helped guide a top-five defense. Internal candidate Jason Tarver, the Browns' linebackers coach, is also a strong contender given his experience as the Raiders' coordinator from 2012-14 and his work with the Browns' defense over the past three seasons.

  • Monken conducted in-person interviews with Undlin and Rutenberg this weekend.
  • Monken could name his new defensive coordinator within the next day or two.

The players

Todd Monken

Head coach of the Cleveland Browns.

Cory Undlin

Passing game coordinator for the Houston Texans, with previous experience as a defensive coordinator and working with Monken in Jacksonville.

Mike Rutenberg

Defensive pass game coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons, with 15 years of NFL experience including as the Jets' linebackers coach from 2021-2024.

Jason Tarver

Linebackers coach for the Cleveland Browns, with experience as the Raiders' defensive coordinator from 2012-2014.

Ephraim Banda

Safeties coach for the Cleveland Browns.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.