The Cleveland Browns have named Ray Horton their next defensive coordinator under Hue Jackson's staff, according to the Browns' team website. Horton returns to Cleveland after serving as their defensive coordinator in 2013, and has been a NFL defensive coordinator for the past five seasons. While the Browns have landed their guy to run their defense in 2016, the San Francisco 49ers are still looking for their next defensive coordinator as Texans linebackers coach Mike Vrabel reportedly turned down their offer.
Two names to watch out for in the 49ers' search for their next defensive coordinator is their own linebackers coach Jason Tarver, and Ravens linebackers coach Don Martindale, according to NFL reporter Albert Breer. The Texans worked hard to keep Vrabel in Houston, and are giving him a new contract, according to John McClain of the Houston Chronicle. The 49ers defense this season was clearly not at the same level as it has been in years past, and while some of that can be blamed on coaching, player personnel is huge issue the 49ers will need to address this offseason.
The 49ers gave up the 18th most points in the NFL last season, and will need to establish a strong defense under newly appointed head coach Chip Kelly. The 49ers new head coach's offense requires a dominant defense, as they look to run their fast-paced offensive system. While the 49ers are looking to solidify their coaching staff, the Browns have already filled Jackson's offense and special teams' coaching staff.
Horton will look to run Cleveland's defense in 2016, and Pep Hamilton has been named the Browns' associate head coach on offense. The Browns have also named Al Saunders their senior offensive assistant and wide receivers coach, and have named Kirby Wilson their running backs coach and run game coordinator. Hal Hunter will become their offensive line coach with Mark Huston as an assistant offensive line coach. Shawn Mennenga and Stan Watson will rejoin special teams coordinator Chris Tabor next season, and with their offensive and special teams coaching staffs filled the Browns can now focus on player personnel and preparing for the 2016 season.
The Browns have the second pick in the 2016 NFL draft, and it will be very interesting to see what direction the Browns front office decides to go in Jackson's first year as head coach.
