The Cleveland Browns have reached an agreement to hire Mike Rutenberg as the team’s new defensive coordinator, according to @AdamSchefter of ESPN.
Rutenberg, 44, joins the staff of newly appointed head coach Todd Monken. He most recently served as the defensive passing game coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons. The hiring comes after the resignation of former coordinator Jim Schwartz, who led the Browns' defense to a top-tier ranking before departing the organization earlier this offseason.
Bringing over a decade of NFL experience to Cleveland, Rutenberg previously served as the linebackers coach for the New York Jets from 2021 to 2024. He also held coaching roles with the San Francisco 49ers and spent seven seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Rutenberg is expected to maintain the aggressive defensive identity that has defined the Browns' unit in recent years while integrating fresh concepts from his time in Atlanta and New York.
The move marks a significant addition for Todd Monken as he continues to finalize his coaching staff ahead of the 2026 season. Rutenberg will be tasked with leading a defense that remains the backbone of the franchise as they look to return to the postseason.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting