Locked On Browns - Daily Podcast On The Cleveland Browns CHANGING OF GUARD: Mike Rutenberg Takes Over Cleveland Browns Defense | Must WIN OVER Locker Room
Feb 17, 2026
A deep dive into the hire of a new defensive play-caller and what his past work with Robert Saleh suggests for scheme and coverage choices. Discussion of his intense sideline personality and how that energy might help earn player buy-in. Examination of coverage tendencies he’s used before and how Cleveland’s secondary could shift under his direction.
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Familiar Scheme, Familiar Personality
- Mike Rutenberg comes from the Robert Saleh coaching tree and understands the wide-nine front and man-heavy principles.
- His emotional, high-energy approach resembles Saleh and should help him connect with players quickly.
Judge The Hire By Results, Not Clips
- Do give Rutenberg a fair chance; his past roles don't prove he'll fail or succeed as a full-time DC.
- Evaluate results on-field rather than overreacting to highlight clips or early impressions.
Win The Locker Room With Visible Energy
- Do win over the locker room by being direct, passionate, and consistent to replace Jim Schwartz's strong player relationships.
- Use visible celebration and energy to make players buy into your leadership fast.