Cleveland Browns Hire New Defensive Coordinator, Eyeing Ohio State Safety in NFL Draft

The Browns' new defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg could influence the team’s first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns have hired Atlanta Falcons defensive passing game coordinator Mike Rutenberg as their new defensive coordinator. Rutenberg is known for his in-depth knowledge of defensive schemes, and the Browns believe he can keep their top-ranked defense humming while adding some of his own wrinkles. One player Rutenberg may target is Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, who could be available when the Browns pick 6th overall in the draft.

Why it matters

The Browns have one of the best defenses in the NFL, and keeping that unit strong is crucial for their Super Bowl aspirations. Rutenberg’s influence as the new coordinator could shape the team’s draft strategy, potentially leading them to select a versatile defensive playmaker like Downs even if they have other pressing needs on offense.

The details

Rutenberg is known for his PhD-level understanding of defensive backs, which could make Ohio State safety Caleb Downs an ideal target for the Browns with the 6th overall pick. Downs is big enough to play in the box but fast enough to cover receivers, providing the kind of versatility that would allow Rutenberg to utilize him at multiple levels of the defense. The Browns currently have Grant Delpit and Ronnie Hickman as their starting safeties, but adding a talent like Downs could take their defense to new heights.

  • The Browns hired Mike Rutenberg as their new defensive coordinator in February 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for late April 2026.

The players

Mike Rutenberg

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

Caleb Downs

A safety prospect from Ohio State University who is projected to be one of the top overall players in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Grant Delpit

The starting safety for the Cleveland Browns.

Ronnie Hickman

The other starting safety for the Cleveland Browns.

Andrew Berry

The general manager of the Cleveland Browns, known for his creative approach to roster building.

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What they’re saying

“He’s one of the best teachers in this league. He understands the back end at a PhD-plus level. He’s a huge part of our success back there. Whether he gets a coordinator job this season or next, it’s inevitable. He’s too good a coach.”

— Jeff Ulbrich, Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Browns will have the opportunity to evaluate Caleb Downs and other top prospects at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis next week, as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft in late April.

The takeaway

The Browns’ hiring of Mike Rutenberg as their new defensive coordinator could have a significant impact on their 2026 NFL Draft strategy, potentially leading them to target a versatile defensive playmaker like Ohio State safety Caleb Downs with their first-round pick, even if they have other pressing needs on offense.