Browns Promote Two Coaches on Defensive Staff

DC Mike Rutenberg elevates Ephraim Banda and Jason Tarver to new roles

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Cleveland Browns are finalizing their defensive coaching staff, with defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg promoting Ephraim Banda and Jason Tarver to new positions. Both Banda and Tarver were previously under contract with the Browns, and the promotions could position them for potential defensive coordinator roles elsewhere if the Browns' defense has another strong season.

Why it matters

Continuity on the coaching staff is important for the Browns as they look to build on a successful 2025 season. Retaining key defensive assistants like Banda and Tarver signals the team’s commitment to maintaining their strong defensive identity.

The details

A day after reportedly promoting cornerbacks coach Brandon Lynch, Rutenberg has now given Banda and Tarver new titles, though the specific roles have not been announced. Both Banda and Tarver, like former defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, were already under contract with the Browns but will now receive new titles and potentially raises to continue coaching the team’s stellar defense.

  • The NFL Combine kicks off next week, where the Browns’ coaching staff will be in attendance.
  • The Browns typically announce new coaching hires and promotions the day before the NFL Combine, so the full staff is expected to be made official on Monday.

The players

Mike Rutenberg

The Cleveland Browns’ defensive coordinator.

Ephraim Banda

A Browns assistant coach who has been promoted to a new role on the defensive staff.

Jason Tarver

A Browns assistant coach who has been promoted to a new role on the defensive staff.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Browns are expected to officially announce the full defensive coaching staff, including Banda and Tarver’s new roles, on Monday ahead of the NFL Combine.

The takeaway

The Browns’ decision to promote Banda and Tarver signals their commitment to maintaining continuity on the defensive coaching staff, which was a key factor in the team’s success last season. These moves could also help position the two assistants for potential defensive coordinator opportunities elsewhere in the future.