Former Jets Coach Lands Browns Defensive Coordinator Job

Mike Rutenberg's move to Cleveland opens up potential trade talks with the Jets

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former New York Jets assistant coach Mike Rutenberg has been hired as the new defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns. Rutenberg spent four seasons as the Jets' linebackers coach from 2021 to 2024, where he helped develop linebacker Jamien Sherwood. Sherwood had a breakout season in 2024 but struggled in 2025 after Rutenberg left the Jets. The move to Cleveland could open up trade talks between the Browns and Jets, potentially reuniting Rutenberg and Sherwood.

Why it matters

Rutenberg's move to the Browns could have significant implications for the Jets, as it may lead to trade discussions involving linebacker Jamien Sherwood. Sherwood had his best season in 2024 under Rutenberg's coaching, but his performance declined in 2025 after Rutenberg's departure. A potential reunion between Rutenberg and Sherwood in Cleveland could be beneficial for both the player and the Browns' defense.

The details

Mike Rutenberg, 44, spent the last four seasons as the linebackers coach for the New York Jets. During his time with the Jets, he helped develop linebacker Jamien Sherwood, who had a breakout season in 2024. However, Sherwood's performance declined in 2025 after Rutenberg left the team. Rutenberg's move to the Cleveland Browns as their new defensive coordinator could open up trade discussions between the two teams, as the Browns may be interested in reuniting Rutenberg with Sherwood to help bolster their defense.

  • Rutenberg spent four seasons as the Jets' linebackers coach from 2021 through 2024.
  • Sherwood had a career season in 2024, but his performance declined in 2025 after Rutenberg left the Jets.

The players

Mike Rutenberg

A 44-year-old coach who spent the last four seasons as the linebackers coach for the New York Jets.

Jamien Sherwood

A 26-year-old linebacker who had a breakout season with the Jets in 2024 under Rutenberg's coaching, but struggled in 2025 after Rutenberg's departure.

Cleveland Browns

The NFL team that has hired Rutenberg as their new defensive coordinator.

New York Jets

The NFL team that employed Rutenberg as their linebackers coach for four seasons and may now engage in trade talks with the Browns involving Sherwood.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Yeah, I do think Jamien Sherwood to me is a player that I would very much move off of if any offers came our way.”

— Dylan Tereman, Jets analyst (Boy Green Daily)

What’s next

The Jets will likely explore trade options for Jamien Sherwood now that his former coach, Mike Rutenberg, has joined the Browns' coaching staff. A reunion between Sherwood and Rutenberg in Cleveland could help Sherwood regain his 2024 form.

The takeaway

This coaching move highlights the importance of continuity and player-coach relationships in the NFL. Rutenberg's departure from the Jets coincided with a decline in Sherwood's performance, and a potential reunion in Cleveland could benefit both the player and the Browns' defense.