Browns in reset mode: Here’s what we know after ouster of Kevin Stefanski

Less than six months ago, coach Kevin Stefanski had a strong show of support from Cleveland Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam despite the organization attempting to rebound from a 3-14 campaign during the 2024 season.

But Jimmy Haslam said another three-win season wouldn’t cut it.

«We’ve got to do better. I think we’ll know what better looks like,» Haslam said.

Ultimately, a 5-12 record in 2025 wasn’t better. The Browns on Monday announced the firing of Stefanski, who guided Cleveland the past six seasons and led the franchise to two playoff appearances while also winning two NFL Coach of the Year awards (2020 and 2023). Stefanski leaves Cleveland with a 45-56 regular-season record and a 1-2 record in the postseason.

Joel Bitonio, Wyatt Teller and Jack Conklin, as well as tight end David Njoku and running back Nick Chubb. However, Stefanski wasn’t able to steer the unit to support an elite defense the past two seasons, both of which saw him give up playcalling duties.

Haslam on Monday said there is still work to do in rebuilding the roster — especially on offense — but he believed this year’s team was capable of winning more games. — Oyefusi

---

Why is Cleveland keeping general manager Andrew Berry?

Berry, 38, will not only remain in his current role, but he will lead the search for the franchise’s next head coach. The Haslams, in their statement, noted the «exciting young core to build upon,» which Berry has been responsible for building. He delivered a productive 2025 draft class and also netted Cleveland an extra first-round pick in 2026 by trading back from the second overall pick to No. 5 with the Jacksonville Jaguars on the opening night of the 2025 draft.

Haslam on Monday also referenced other personnel moves made by Berry, including the free agent signing of defensive tackle Maliek Collins, finding breakout kicker Andre Szmyt and the in-season trade for cornerback Tyson Campbell.

With Stefanski out, there is potentially a stronger spotlight on Berry, who arrived in Cleveland with Stefanski in 2020. He’ll need to continue to build on both sides of the ball and, of course, find a quarterback. — Oyefusi

Klint Kubiak, Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher, a possible sleeper for the job. Some of the hottest coaching candidates are defensive coordinators, so expect candidates such as the Rams’ Chris Shula, Packers’ Jeff Hafley, Broncos’ Vance Joseph and Chargers’ Jesse Minter.

Haslam said he doesn’t have a preference on finding a coach who specializes in either offense or defense but is looking for a good leader to build a strong culture. — Fowler and Oyefusi

---

How likely is Stefanski to land another head coach job this offseason?

Offseason guide for eliminated teams
&#8226 Ranks: Free agents | Draft prospects
&#8226 Early needs for every team | Draft order

Several sources familiar with the leaguewide hiring process expect Stefanski to become a viable head coaching candidate — quite possibly among the most viable. This year’s field is the most wide open in years, without a clear-cut top target. Having head coaching experience helps. As one high-ranking NFL executive put it, two-time coach of the year recipients don’t come available very often. Doing so in Cleveland only amplifies that feat.

The Tennessee Titans and New York Giants will likely want to speak with Stefanski. They’ve had weeks to research potential candidates and anticipated Stefanski could become available. One ding on Stefanski’s résumé is his relinquishing of offensive playcalling in back-to-back years, taking the sheen off his offensive cachet. But Stefanski lacked elite offensive weapons at his disposal the past two years, to be sure, and the burdensome Deshaun Watson contract inhibited progress for the entire operation. Teams with job openings will understand all of that. — Fowler

---

How will the coaching change impact the Browns’ QB situation?

This is a last-place AFC North team that needs to start over at the most important position regardless of whom it hires. Perhaps Shedeur Sanders can be a bridge option in 2026? But having two first-round picks presents a unique chance to get a premier passer if the draft falls right. Expect the Browns to explore free agent options such as Daniel Jones or Malik Willis.

Watson enters the final year of his record-breaking contract. While it feels like the relationship is over, he is an option and was once the NFL passing leader. Putting him on the field again could affect the Browns’ cap savings from the insurance policy the team took out on his $230-million contract. — Fowler