Browns Narrow DC Search to 3 Finalists

Cory Undlin, Jason Tarver, and Mike Rutenberg are the top candidates to replace Jim Schwartz as Cleveland's defensive coordinator.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns have narrowed their search for a new defensive coordinator to replace Jim Schwartz down to three finalists - Texans passing game coordinator Cory Undlin, Browns linebackers coach Jason Tarver, and Falcons passing game coordinator Mike Rutenberg. The three candidates have extensive experience working under Schwartz, which would allow the Browns to maintain their successful defensive system.

Why it matters

The Browns' defensive coordinator position is a critical hire as the team looks to build on their success from the previous season. Maintaining continuity in the defensive scheme is important, so the Browns are prioritizing candidates with prior experience under Schwartz.

The details

Undlin and Rutenberg interviewed in person with the Browns this past weekend. Both Undlin and Tarver have previous NFL coordinator experience, with Undlin serving as the Lions' defensive coordinator in 2020 and Tarver holding the same role with the Raiders from 2012-2014. Tarver has worked as the Browns' linebackers coach for the past six seasons, including the last three under Schwartz. Undlin also has experience working under Schwartz, having done so from 2016-2019 with the Eagles. Rutenberg became the Falcons' defensive pass game coordinator in 2025 after four seasons as linebackers coach for the Jets.

  • The Browns' search for a new defensive coordinator began after Jim Schwartz announced his retirement in January 2026.
  • The team interviewed the three finalists - Undlin, Tarver, and Rutenberg - this past weekend.

The players

Cory Undlin

Texans passing game coordinator who previously served as the Lions' defensive coordinator in 2020 and worked under Jim Schwartz with the Eagles from 2016-2019.

Jason Tarver

Browns linebackers coach who has held that role for the past six seasons, including the last three under Jim Schwartz.

Mike Rutenberg

Falcons passing game coordinator who previously spent four seasons as linebackers coach for the Jets.

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What they’re saying

“The Browns have narrowed their search for a new defensive coordinator to replace Jim Schwartz.”

— Mary Kay Cabot, Reporter (cleveland.com)

What’s next

The Browns are expected to make a decision on their new defensive coordinator in the coming days.

The takeaway

The Browns are prioritizing continuity in their defensive scheme by focusing on candidates with prior experience working under Jim Schwartz. Maintaining a successful defensive system will be crucial as the team looks to build on their recent success.