"Rutenberg helped put together game plans that stymied opposing passing attacks, especially early in the season, and worked with a greatly improved secondary in 2025. Jeff Ulbrich was clearly bracing to lose Rutenberg. The Falcons previously blocked secondary coach Justin Hood from interviewing with the 49ers, and I'd have to think he's the strongest in-house candidate for the role. The team's pass defense was 13th in yardage allowed despite injuries to key players like Mike Hughes, Billy Bowman Jr., and Divine Deablo,"
"Now Rutenberg will fill big shoes in Cleveland, where he's taking over for departing defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. The Browns defense was definitely the better side of the ball in 2025, but they elected to hire Todd Monken instead of Schwartz, leading him to depart. Rutenberg is a well-regarded assistant in a first-time role with a franchise that's tough to work for, so we'll wish him well and hope he can keep the good times going on defense."
Mike Rutenberg was hired by the Cleveland Browns as defensive coordinator after five seasons working with Jeff Ulbrich, including roles with the Jets and Atlanta. Rutenberg contributed to game plans that disrupted opposing passing attacks and helped improve a secondary in 2025. The Falcons anticipated his departure and have internal candidates such as Justin Hood, while the team's pass defense ranked 13th despite injuries. Rutenberg replaces Jim Schwartz after the Browns hired Todd Monken, and he faces expectations to sustain a strong defense in a challenging franchise environment.
Read at The Falcoholic
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