The Cleveland Browns were looking to improve on offense with the hiring of Todd Monken to replace head coach Kevin Stefanski. That would count on improved quarterback play, which they have received, thanks to Monken’s ability to coax good performances out of Deshaun Watson.
Things were much less clear on the other side of the ball, as first-time defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg was taking over for well-respected Jim Schwartz, who resigned after not getting Cleveland’s head coaching job. One week into the season, that looked like a disaster, as the Browns’ defense was overmatched in a 34-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Since then, the unit has gotten much better, helping the Browns to three straight wins and into first place in the AFC North. That should bode well for the rest of the season.
James Palmer revealed what he’s hearing about the Browns’ DC, saying that his ability to adapt is making a big difference.
“‘Rudy’ is doing an outstanding job running the Browns defense. Adapting and changing to his players and using all the blended styles he’s gained over the years. They think the world of him,” Palmer posted.
Nuggets I've gathered Week 4:
– The Bucs really do think Jalon Daniels can sling and some in the building call his arm "elite". They know rookie mistakes will happen, but they feel he can bring a real spark and it's needed.
– Part of the reason the Bears were so coy with the QB…— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) October 4, 2026
After serving as the Atlanta Falcons’ defensive pass game coordinator last season, Rutenberg joined the Browns thinking he would build his scheme around two-time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett. But after staying away from spring workouts, Garrett was traded to the Los Angeles Rams in June.
So, entering training camp with Jared Verse in Garrett’s place, Rutenberg faced his first challenge. He was helped when cornerback Denzel Ward signed a contract extension rather than being traded.
The Browns lost defensive end Alex Wright to injury during camp, which was another hurdle to overcome. But in the Week 4 victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Rutenberg was able to get sacks from five different players, even after losing team leader Mason Graham to injury in the first quarter.
After that season-opening loss, the Browns’ defense has been able to prevent losing final drives against them in each of the past three games, closing two with an interception. Cleveland does rank in the bottom third of the league in yards allowed, but its players have shown they can perform when it matters most.
That may be the best sign of Rutenberg’s coaching abilities, and the defense will try to continue to improve in Week 5 against the New York Jets.
NEXT: Browns Have History On Their Side In Surprising Playoff Push
