Browns defensive coordinator emphasizes player understanding in new scheme
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 11, 2026, 11:16 PM
Last updated Aug 11, 2026

Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg is focused on helping his players grasp their roles in a newly installed defensive system. As Rutenberg begins his first season in this position, he acknowledges the challenges of following Jim Schwartz. Injuries have impacted practice, including linebacker Carson Schwesinger and defensive tackles. Rutenberg stresses that a defense's effectiveness depends on players understanding their jobs and making smart plays. He is committed to learning and adapting as the training camp progresses.
- •Mike Rutenberg enters his first season as defensive coordinator after Jim Schwartz.
- •Carson Schwesinger is missing practice time due to injury.
- •Rutenberg emphasizes the importance of players understanding their roles.
- •Defensive challenges include integrating rookie safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren.
- •Rutenberg aims to learn daily with support from experienced staff.
- 11:16 PMYahoo Sports — Cleveland Browns DC: It is the players that make every scheme work
"Mike Rutenberg focusing on making sure his players understand what needs to be done to be successful.
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