Browns Hire Mike Rutenberg as Defensive Coordinator

New Browns head coach Todd Monken taps former Falcons assistant to lead defense.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns have hired Mike Rutenberg as their new defensive coordinator, replacing the departed Jim Schwartz. Rutenberg, who previously served as the passing game coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons, was selected from a pool of finalists that included Browns linebackers coach Jason Tarver and Texans passing game coordinator Cory Undlin.

Why it matters

The Browns' defense struggled at times last season, so Monken is hoping Rutenberg can bring a fresh perspective and help elevate the unit to an elite level to complement the team's potent offense.

The details

Rutenberg, 41, has 16 years of NFL experience but has never served as a defensive coordinator at the professional level. However, he impressed Monken during the interview process with his elite defensive background. Rutenberg replaces Jim Schwartz, who resigned after being passed over for the Browns' head coaching job in favor of Monken.

  • On Monday, Todd Monken hired Rutenberg as the new defensive coordinator.
  • Rutenberg was selected from a pool of three finalists on Sunday.

The players

Todd Monken

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns.

Mike Rutenberg

The new defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns, previously the passing game coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons.

Jim Schwartz

The former defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns, who resigned after being passed over for the head coaching job.

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What’s next

Rutenberg will now begin the process of installing his defensive scheme and working with the Browns' players to prepare for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The Browns are hoping Rutenberg's fresh perspective and defensive expertise can help elevate their defense to an elite level and complement their potent offense, as they look to build on last season's success and make a deep playoff run.