The Cleveland Browns have officially announced the appointments of Travis Switzer as offensive coordinator, Mike Rutenberg as defensive coordinator, and Byron Storer as special teams coordinator. This announcement was made on February 20, following Todd Monken”s tenure as head coach, which began on January 28.
Monken emphasized the importance of finding coaches who prioritize the development of their players. “You”re always looking for coaches that never forget that we have a job for our players,” Monken stated. “That”s first and foremost, and our job is to maximize our players” measurable skill set. I always aspire to be the best coach they”ve ever had.”
Delving into the backgrounds of the new coordinators, Switzer, at 33 years old, becomes the fourth offensive coordinator for the Browns in as many years. His predecessors included Alex Van Pelt, who was let go after the 2023 season, and Ken Dorsey, who followed in 2024. The Browns” 2025 season, which ended with a disappointing 5-12 record, led to head coach Kevin Stefanski”s dismissal, while Tommy Rees left the offensive coordinator role to join the Atlanta Falcons.
Switzer previously served as the run-game coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, where Monken was the offensive coordinator during the same period. Monken praised Switzer”s readiness for the challenge ahead, highlighting his intentionality, intelligence, and teaching ability. “He was our run game coordinator, and that”s where it all starts with your ability to run the football,” Monken remarked.
In 2024, the Ravens achieved remarkable offensive statistics, becoming the first team in NFL history to surpass 4,000 passing yards and 3,000 rushing yards in a single season. The 2025 Ravens, however, faced challenges, finishing with a record of 8-9 and totaling 5,647 yards of offense.
Mike Rutenberg, 44, brings 14 years of NFL coaching experience, having recently served as the pass-game coordinator for the Falcons. Prior to that, he spent four seasons coaching linebackers for the Jets. The Browns” offense, under Switzer”s direction, will need to improve significantly, as they ranked 30th with only 4,456 yards in 2025, ahead of only the Raiders and Titans.
Rutenberg faces a tougher task, as the Browns” defense had a strong performance in 2025, ranking fourth overall by allowing an average of 283.6 yards per game. Previous defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz was well-respected among players and resigned in protest when Monken was appointed. Monken expressed his commitment to maintaining Schwartz”s system, and Rutenberg”s familiarity with a similar approach was a key factor in his selection.
Byron Storer, 41, joins the Browns after serving as the assistant special teams coach for the Packers for four seasons. His prior experience includes roles with the Raiders and Chargers. Storer took a brief hiatus from coaching to manage his family”s transportation company before returning to the field.
Monken shared his appreciation for Storer”s diverse journey, noting his playing experience in the NFL and his coaching history. “Matt LaFleur just absolutely standing on the table for him was huge,” Monken remarked, emphasizing Storer”s impressive interview.
Storer played three seasons in the NFL as a fullback for the Buccaneers before an injury ended his career, making him well-suited for his new role with the Browns.
