Browns down to 3 DC finalists: Hire expected in 48 hours

The search for a new defensive coordinator is hitting the home stretch in Cleveland. The Browns head coach Todd Monken is moving to replace Jim Schwartz, narrowing the field to three primary finalists according to team insider Mary Kay Cabot.

With in-person interviews wrapping up this weekend, a decision could land within the next 48-hours.

Here is the breakdown of the trio vying to lead Cleveland’s elite defense:

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Cory Undlin (Texans defensive pass-game coordinator)

Undlin is the name to watch if Monken wants to keep the aggressive "Schwartz-style" engine running.

• Pros: He spent time alongside Jim Schwartz in Philadelphia. He knows the Wide-9 front and the specialized coverages that made Cleveland’s defense a top-5 unit. He offers the smoothest transition for Myles Garrett and company.

• Cons: His previous stint as a DC in Detroit (2020) was statistically rough, though he lacked the high-end talent he’d inherit with the Browns.

Mike Rutenberg (Falcons defensive pass-game coordinator)

A rising star with deep ties to the staff, Rutenberg brings a fresh perspective from a revitalized Falcons unit.

• Pros: He has a long history with Monken from their time together in Tampa Bay. He’s known for high-level schematic flexibility and coached a very disciplined secondary in Atlanta.

• Cons: He hasn’t called plays at the NFL level yet, making him a "projection" compared to veteran options.

Jason Tarver (Browns linebacker coach)

The internal candidate who knows this roster better than anyone.

• Pros: Total continuity. Tarver has earned massive respect in the locker room having already built up LB stars like rookie DPOY Carson Schwesinger and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. He has previous DC experience with the Raiders as well.

• Cons: Hiring internally might be seen as "playing it safe" rather than bringing in a fresh spark to evolve the unit.

The clock is ticking. Expect the Browns to have their man by end of day Monday.

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