The Browns' Big Change: Stefanski Out After Six Seasons

The Cleveland Browns have decided to part ways with head coach Kevin Stefanski after six seasons. This move comes after a tough 2025 season, where the team finished with a 5-12 record, placing them last in the AFC North for the second year in a row.

Owners Express Gratitude but Seek Change

The Browns' owners, Jimmy and Dee Haslam, expressed their gratitude for Stefanski's leadership but felt a change was necessary due to the team's recent struggles.

"We are grateful for Kevin's leadership and the success he brought to our organization. However, we believe a change is necessary to move forward and build a winning team." - Jimmy and Dee Haslam

Andrew Berry, the general manager, will stay with the team and lead the search for a new head coach. The Haslams are committed to building a winning team and investing in the necessary resources to achieve this goal.

Stefanski's Legacy: Highs and Lows

Stefanski's time with the Browns was not all bad. From 2020 to 2023, he led the team to two playoff appearances and the highest winning percentage since the late 1980s. However, the past two seasons have been challenging, with a combined record of 8-26.

Stefanski's firing comes just two years after he received a contract extension and two seasons after winning his second NFL Coach of the Year award.

Offensive Struggles and Quarterback Issues

The Browns' offense has been a major issue in recent seasons. They scored fewer than 20 points in 11 games this season, which is tied for the most in the league. Stefanski handed over playcalling duties to offensive coordinator Tommy Rees after the team's Week 9 bye.

The Browns used three different starting quarterbacks in 2025, including rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.

Deshaun Watson, who the Browns traded for and gave a massive contract to, did not play in 2025 due to injuries. He is expected to be on the roster in 2026.

Looking Ahead

The Browns' next head coach will be the franchise's 11th since 1999. This is the second high-profile departure from the organization in the past few months, following Paul DePodesta's departure.

The Haslams believe that the team has a strong young core to build upon and are determined to add more talent to the roster.