The Cleveland Browns have made the difficult decision to part ways with head coach Kevin Stefanski after six seasons, following a disappointing 5-12 record in 2025. This change comes after the team’s owners, Dee and Jimmy Haslam, emphasized the need for improvement over the past two seasons, which yielded a combined record of 8-26. Despite having the support of the Haslams earlier in the year, it became evident that the results were not meeting expectations.
Stefanski, who took the reins in 2020, had previously led the Browns to two playoff appearances and earned NFL Coach of the Year honors in 2020 and 2023. However, his tenure has been marked by struggles on offense, which is considered his area of expertise. Over the years, the Browns have cycled through an NFL-high 13 starting quarterbacks under his leadership. The team noted that their quarterbacks have consistently ranked among the bottom in important performance metrics.
With Stefanski’s exit, general manager Andrew Berry will remain with the team and will spearhead the search for the Browns’ 11th head coach since 1999. Berry has been instrumental in building what the Haslams described as an “exciting young core,” including a successful draft strategy that netted Cleveland an additional first-round pick in 2026. Moving forward, the pressure will be on Berry to solidify both the roster and the quarterback situation.
As the franchise searches for a new head coach, there are various candidates under consideration. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, known for leading a top-ranked defense, is a candidate the organization would like to retain. The Browns may also look at offensive-minded candidates such as Klint Kubiak, Joe Brady, Matt Nagy, and Dan Pitcher to rejuvenate their offense.
Stefanski’s future in coaching looks promising; multiple sources predict he will be a sought-after candidate for other head coaching positions, especially given the lack of standout individuals in this year’s coaching carousel. Teams like the Tennessee Titans and the New York Giants are likely to be interested in his experience despite the recent challenges in Cleveland.
Amidst this coaching shift, the Browns will confront an urgent need to address their quarterback concerns. They have two first-round picks in the upcoming draft, presenting a unique opportunity to find a franchise quarterback. In addition, free agency options such as Daniel Jones and Malik Willis could also be explored to reinvigorate a struggling position.
This transition opens a new chapter for the Browns, who are hopeful that a coaching change can restore the team’s competitiveness in the league. With a young roster and resources in the upcoming draft, there remains a glimmer of optimism for a brighter future in Cleveland.