The Cleveland Browns are in the market for a new defensive coordinator after Jim Schwartz submitted his letter of resignation when the team opted to hire Todd Monken over him as head coach.
It was reported at the time that Schwartz said his goodbyes, packed up his office, and stormed out of the building. Schwartz apparently met with new head coach Monken ahead of submitting his letter of resignation, but it did not smooth things over.
As a result, the Browns are potentially turning over their defensive staff as well. So, how is the search going? We’ve got you covered here at Browns Wire.
Browns interview two internal candidates to replace their former boss
As the Browns look to replace Schwartz, they turn first to two candidates who worked under him. Linebackers coach Jason Tarver and safeties coach Ephraim Banda are the first two names to land an interview with the Browns as they search for a new defensive coordinator.
Tarver was a defensive coordinator for the Oakland Raiders from 2012-2014, while Banda has received interest in back-to-back years from teams looking for a new defensive coordinator. He interviewed for the Dallas Cowboys’ opening this past season.
Giants assistant gets an interview request
Former New York Giants assistant and interim defensive coordinator this past season, Charlie Bullen, has landed an interview request from the Browns. Despite a change in regime, Bullen is still under contract in the Big Apple, and has spent the last 15 years in the NFL. He has held posts as assistant defensive line coach, assistant linebackers coach, pass rush specialist, outside linebackers coach, and more.
Jeff Ulbrich understudy earns interview in Cleveland
Mike Rutenberg, who has spent the last decade coaching under names like Robert Saleh and Jeff Ulbrich, has been requested for an interview in Cleveland. He most recently has held the post of passing game coordinator under Ulbrich and former Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris. Former Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski retained Ulbrich and his staff, so he is currently still under contract with the Falcons.
Rams defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator lands interview with Browns
Aubrey Pleasant, the current defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator of the Los Angeles Rams, is the new name to add to the list of candidates to replace Jim Schwartz. Pleasant has a world of experience as a passing game coordinator and has spent the last three seasons with the Rams.
Panthers assistant under well-regarded Ejiro Evero get added to the list
Jonathan Cooley, a defensive assistant under Ejiro Evero with the Carolina Panthers, is the latest name the Browns have requested to interview. He finished third season with the team as their passing game specialist. He also has experience coaching defensive backs and has been coaching in the NFL since 2020.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Browns DC tracker: Every rumor in the quest to replace Jim Schwartz
Reporting by Cory Kinnan, Browns Wire / Browns Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
