Early on Saturday morning, the Cleveland Browns found their man. Just one day after firing defensive coordinator, Todd Grantham, the Browns have a new man at the helm of the defense.

Mel Tucker, Ohio native, was hired earlier today to take over the defense.

His previous jobs have been co-defensive coordinator for Ohio State, as well as DB's coach for the Browns for over 3 years now. He has also coached at LSU and Miami University (Ohio)

Tucker turned 36 years old last week, and has a long career ahead of him if he can do the job the Browns hope he can.

A statement from head Caoch Romeo Crennel was as follows:

"We are excited to have Mel as our defensive coordinator. He has a football plan, a life plan, coaches the fundamentals and relates well with the players. I believe he will be successful in this new role."

Tucker will have his work cut out for him. The Browns have ranked near last place of almost all defensive categories for the past few seasons.

A side note to pass along: Rod Chudzinski, Offensive Coordinator will also be returning next season.

Tucker has some weapons to use for his defense. Safties Brodney Poole and Sean Jones had terrific years, along with up-and-coming cornerbacks, Brandon McDonald and Eric Wright.

"I would like to thank Randy Lerner, Phil Savage and Romeo Crennel for the opportunity to be the defensive coordinator for my hometown team," Tucker said in a statement issued from the Cleveland Browns this morning. "I'm looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead and I'm confident with hard work we can improve our defense. We have a great group of players on this team and my familiarity with them will be an asset."

This guy seems like the kind of guy you want coaching your defense. We'll see how well he can do when the Browns play again in the Fall.

I'd like to thank clevelandbrowns.com for giving me the information needed for me to right this blog.

Take care, everyone! Have a great weekend!

-Mike Greenspire