Cleveland Browns Bet Big on Sweeping Changes, Formally Announce New Coordinators

The Browns have new faces at each of their top three coordinator positions, including offensive, defensive and special teams.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 8:34pm

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The Cleveland Browns have officially announced the hirings of their new offensive, defensive and special teams coordinators. Travis Switzer takes over as offensive coordinator, Mike Rutenberg is the new defensive coordinator, and Byron Storer will lead the special teams. The team also promoted several defensive assistants, including Ephraim Banda, Jason Tarver and Brandon Lynch.

Why it matters

The Browns are undergoing a major coaching overhaul, with new faces at all three coordinator positions as well as a new head coach in Todd Monken. This represents a significant shift in direction for the franchise as they look to turn things around after a disappointing season.

The details

Monken praised the new coordinators, saying Switzer's expertise in the run game will be key, Rutenberg's familiarity with a similar defensive system should provide continuity, and Stover's impressive interview made him the clear choice for special teams. The Browns will be one of seven NFL teams to have new head coaches and completely revamped their top four coaching positions this offseason.

  • The Browns officially announced the new coordinator hires on February 20, 2026.

The players

Travis Switzer

The Browns' new offensive coordinator, previously the run game coordinator in Baltimore.

Mike Rutenberg

The Browns' new defensive coordinator, previously on the Falcons' coaching staff.

Byron Storer

The Browns' new special teams coordinator, previously worked under one of the best special teams coaches in the league.

Todd Monken

The Browns' new head coach, who will be calling the offensive plays.

Ephraim Banda

Browns defensive assistant promoted to passing game coordinator.

Jason Tarver

Browns defensive assistant promoted to run game coordinator.

Brandon Lynch

Browns defensive backs coach promoted to defensive passing game specialist.

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What they’re saying

“He was our run game coordinator, and that's where it all starts with your ability to run the football.”

— Todd Monken, Browns Head Coach (SI.com)

“He'd been in a similar system, but not the exact system because Jim was unique.”

— Todd Monken, Browns Head Coach (SI.com)

“Unbelievable presentation when we interviewed him, he was more than ready. It was obvious when I got done interviewing him that we had to have him here.”

— Todd Monken, Browns Head Coach (SI.com)

What’s next

The Browns will continue their offseason preparations as they look to implement the new coaching staff's vision for the team.

The takeaway

The Browns are undergoing a major overhaul of their coaching staff, bringing in new coordinators across the board as they look to turn the franchise around. The team is betting big on these sweeping changes to get the organization back on track.