Full Breakdown
Cleveland Browns Hire Byron Storer as New Special Teams Coordinator
2/11/2026, 8:11:32 AM
Transition in Special Teams Leadership
On February 10, 2026, the Cleveland Browns announced the hiring of Byron Storer as their new special teams coordinator, following the departure of Bubba Ventrone, who accepted a similar position with the Los Angeles Rams. Storer, 41, previously served as the assistant special teams coordinator for the Green Bay Packers under Rich Bisaccia. His coaching career began in 2010 after a stint as a fullback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and he has since held various roles in special teams coaching across multiple NFL teams, including the San Diego Chargers and the Las Vegas Raiders.
Challenges Ahead for Storer
Storer inherits a special teams unit that struggled significantly during the previous season, ranking 29th in the NFL. The Browns' special teams were particularly criticized for allowing three return touchdowns in a single game against the New York Jets. The team aims to improve its performance, especially in coverage units and return game consistency. Storer's experience, particularly his success in Green Bay where he contributed to the team's best three-year kickoff return performance, is seen as a potential turning point for the Browns.
Key Personnel and Coaching Staff
In addition to Storer's hiring, the Browns have retained Duce Staley as the running backs coach, who played a crucial role in developing rookie running back Quinshon Judkins during the previous season. Staley's continuity is expected to support the overall offensive strategy under new head coach Todd Monken. The Browns are also in the process of filling the defensive coordinator position after Jim Schwartz's resignation, having interviewed several candidates, including internal options.
Official Statements & Responses
Browns general manager Andrew Berry expressed confidence in Storer's ability to enhance the special teams unit, highlighting his background under Bisaccia as a significant asset. Berry noted the team's commitment to developing a younger roster, which may impact the special teams strategy moving forward.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimism surrounding Storer's appointment, there are concerns regarding the Browns' overall roster depth, particularly in special teams. Ventrone previously cited a lack of talent as a contributing factor to the unit's struggles, indicating that a young and inexperienced roster could lead to ongoing challenges. Critics argue that without addressing these foundational issues, improvements may be limited.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We've had too many, too many issues with just, just dumb, dumb, dumb, dumb football, dumb mistakes.” — Bubba Ventrone, former Special Teams Coordinator, Cleveland Browns
What's Next
As the Browns finalize their coaching staff, Storer's immediate focus will be on assessing the current special teams personnel, including young kicker Andre Szmyt and punter Corey Bojorquez, who is set to become a free agent. The team's performance in the upcoming season will be closely monitored as they aim to rectify past shortcomings in special teams play.
