The Cleveland Browns have officially parted ways with head coach Kevin Stefanski, bringing an end to a coaching era defined by fleeting promise and persistent quarterback turmoil. The decision, confirmed by the franchise on Monday, comes directly after a dismal 5-12 finish in the 2025 NFL season, one of the league's worst records.
The Quarterback Carousel That Sealed Stefanski's Fate
Stefanski's final years in Cleveland were overwhelmingly shaped by the team's inability to find a stable leader under center. This crisis began in earnest after Baker Mayfield's departure following the 2021 season. The 2025 campaign epitomised this struggle, operating as a transition year from the start. The offense entered training camp with no clear starter, carrying four quarterbacks: veteran Joe Flacco, former Steelers first-round pick Kenny Pickett, and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.
Pickett was traded before the season, leaving Flacco as the default Week 1 starter. However, Flacco's stint was short and disastrous; he threw six interceptions against just two touchdowns in four starts before being traded to the Cincinnati Bengals. His departure forced the Browns to turn to rookie Dillon Gabriel. While Gabriel showed effort, his performances lacked the consistency needed to win games. As losses mounted, Stefanski faced increasing criticism for his reluctance to start the high-profile rookie, Shedeur Sanders.
A Costly Trade and Fleeting Success
Any analysis of Stefanski's dismissal is incomplete without acknowledging the colossal shadow of the Deshaun Watson trade. Watson's $230 million fully guaranteed contract, coupled with his inconsistent availability and play, severely handcuffed the franchise's options and resources for years. This forced the team to cycle through multiple backup quarterbacks, creating a tough environment for any offensive-minded coach.
Despite these monumental challenges, Kevin Stefanski did have notable successes. He guided the Browns to two playoff appearances. His debut season in 2020 was an impressive 11-5 campaign, and he masterminded a surprise playoff run in 2023, fueled by Joe Flacco's remarkable late-season resurgence. With a .440 winning percentage, Stefanski leaves with the best record of any Browns coach in several decades.
What Comes Next for the Cleveland Browns?
The concussion to Dillon Gabriel finally opened the door for Shedeur Sanders, who flashed his potential with a three-touchdown game against the Tennessee Titans. However, these individual highlights did not translate into victories. With the season lost, the organisation decided a change in leadership was imperative.
General Manager Andrew Berry will remain in his position to oversee the next phase of the team's rebuild. As the Browns launch their search for a new head coach, they are confronted with the same old questions. The franchise must determine if Dillon Gabriel or Shedeur Sanders can be the long-term answer at quarterback, and whether a new coach can finally bring the stability that has eluded this team for far too long.
