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Browns Finalize Coordinator Hires as Rutenberg Elevates Assistants to Preserve Defense

Cleveland prioritizes continuity of its attacking front under a first-time play-caller.

Overview

  • Todd Monken named Travis Switzer offensive coordinator, Mike Rutenberg defensive coordinator and Byron Storer special teams coordinator in Friday’s team announcements.
  • Rutenberg arrives from Atlanta as defensive pass game coordinator with 16 years of NFL experience, stepping into his first NFL play-calling role.
  • To maintain the Schwartz-built system, Rutenberg promoted Brandon Lynch to defensive backs coach/passing game specialist and elevated Ephraim Banda and Jason Tarver to pass- and run-game coordinator roles.
  • Monken said the Browns will keep their four-down, attacking identity while Rutenberg applies lessons from similar systems to refine coverages and disguise.
  • Key next steps include translating Rutenberg’s backend expertise into game-day calls, securing buy-in from leaders such as Myles Garrett and deciding on linebacker Devin Bush’s contract status.