Cleveland Browns: Former head coaches to target as defensive coordinator
By Dan Justik
![DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 15: Running back Phillip Lindsay #30 of the Denver Broncos is wrapped up by defensive end Myles Garrett #95 of the Cleveland Browns on a first quarter ruch attempt at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on December 15, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 15: Running back Phillip Lindsay #30 of the Denver Broncos is wrapped up by defensive end Myles Garrett #95 of the Cleveland Browns on a first quarter ruch attempt at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on December 15, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fdawgpounddaily-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fgetty-images-2F2017-2F07-2F1073998702-850x560-b4e771a74aad789f17ca495f93c53753b20a634b20bda978bbf9cfd593c75957.jpg)
Jack Del Rio
Jack Del Rio did not coach in 2018 after spending three seasons as the Oakland Raiders head coach. He was a leading candidate for the New York Giants defensive coordinator position last off-season, but did not get the job.
Del Rio has spent four seasons as a defensive coordinator in the NFL, most recently as the Denver Broncos defensive coordinator from 2012-2014. During that time, the Broncos defense was one of the most dominant defenses in the league.
Del Rio primarily runs a 4-3 defense that relies on man-to-man coverage. The Denver secondary was tough to throw on in his defense, which would be a welcomed sight in Cleveland. Last season, the Browns finished 25th in the league in passing defense.
His defense has also helped create two of the most dominating pass rushers in the league in the last decade. In his defense, Von Miller and Khalil Mack have thrived at the beginning of their careers.
The 55-year-old has also spent 12 seasons as a head coach, compiling a record of 93-94. He would certainly match the Wade Phillips role with the amount of experience he has in the NFL. His defense has helped a young Broncos defense thrive, and he matches his defense with his personnel.
For the Browns, Del Rio would be a perfect fit. He would have the next best edge rusher in Myles Garrett and a young secondary that showed plenty of potential. If he wants to pursue defensive coordinator jobs again this off-season, Cleveland should certainly be one of the teams to call him.