Kleinlein comes to Rutgers after four years as a member of the football staff at Wake Forest University, including serving as Assistant Director of Football Operations in 2002. Kleinlein joined the Demon Deacons staff in 1998 as an academic counselor, before being named Assistant Director of Football Operations. In addition to his academic oversight role, Kleinlein also served as the program’s liaison with high school coaches and NFL scouts, while aiding with recruiting.

Kleinlein, a four-year letter winner and starter at Wake Forest on the offensive line (left tackle), was a member of the Deacons’ 1992 team that posted an 8-4 record, including a 39-35 win over Oregon State in the Independence Bowl. A history major, Kleinlein taught and coached on the high school level following graduation before returning to the college game.

Originally from Inwood, NY, Kleinlein played scholastically at Lawrence High School, where he earned All-State honors. He and his wife, Tara, have two sons – Austin (4) and Mason (18 months).