Browns Narrow Down Defensive Coordinator Search to 3 Finalists

Cleveland expected to make a hire within the next 48 hours

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns are in the final stages of their search for a new defensive coordinator, narrowing the field down to three primary finalists. The team is expected to make a hire within the next 48 hours, with in-person interviews wrapping up this weekend. The three finalists include Cory Undlin from the Houston Texans, Mike Rutenberg from the Atlanta Falcons, and Jason Tarver, the Browns' current linebacker coach.

Why it matters

The Browns' defense was a top-5 unit in the NFL last season under former coordinator Jim Schwartz. Whichever candidate is hired will be tasked with maintaining that high level of performance and potentially evolving the scheme to get the most out of star players like Myles Garrett.

The details

Cory Undlin is seen as the frontrunner if the Browns want to keep their aggressive "Schwartz-style" defense intact. Mike Rutenberg would bring a fresh perspective from the Falcons, but has never called plays at the NFL level. Jason Tarver is the internal candidate who knows the Browns' roster best, but his hiring may be viewed as the "safe" choice rather than a bold move.

  • The Browns are expected to make a decision on their new defensive coordinator within the next 48 hours.
  • The final round of in-person interviews with the three finalists will take place this weekend.

The players

Todd Monken

The head coach of the Cleveland Browns who is leading the search for a new defensive coordinator.

Jim Schwartz

The former defensive coordinator of the Cleveland Browns, who is being replaced.

Cory Undlin

The defensive pass-game coordinator for the Houston Texans, and one of the three finalists for the Browns' defensive coordinator job.

Mike Rutenberg

The defensive pass-game coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons, and one of the three finalists for the Browns' defensive coordinator job.

Jason Tarver

The current linebacker coach for the Cleveland Browns, and one of the three finalists for the defensive coordinator job.

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What’s next

The Browns are expected to make a decision on their new defensive coordinator by the end of the day on Monday.

The takeaway

The Browns' defensive coordinator search highlights the importance of maintaining continuity and institutional knowledge, while also potentially bringing in fresh perspectives to evolve the unit. Whichever candidate is hired will be tasked with keeping the Browns' defense among the league's elite.