Kevin Stefanski’s time in Cleveland has been anything but quiet. Since taking over the Browns, he’s navigated one of the most unpredictable stretches in franchise history-marked by flashes of brilliance, quarterback chaos, and a revolving door of expectations. Now, with the Deshaun Watson chapter seemingly closed and the Shedeur Sanders era potentially on the horizon, the question many in Cleveland are asking is: will Stefanski be part of the next act?
According to NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, the Browns haven’t made a final call on Stefanski’s future. That leaves the door open for a return in 2026-or a potential parting of ways after this season. What’s clear is that the organization is evaluating everything.
Stefanski, a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, has earned respect for his steady hand during turbulent times. Even in a season defined by transition and a young, evolving roster, he’s kept the team competitive and focused.
But the numbers don’t lie: the Browns are 6-25 over the past two seasons. That’s the kind of record that forces tough conversations, especially with a franchise still searching for long-term stability.
The big question now falls to owner Jimmy Haslam: does he believe Stefanski is the right coach to lead a young quarterback and a retooling roster into the next phase of the rebuild? If not, Stefanski could be on the move-and he wouldn’t stay unemployed for long.
He’s wrapping up his sixth season in Cleveland and preparing to face a tough Week 16 matchup against the 10-4 Buffalo Bills. Over his tenure, Stefanski has delivered two 11-win seasons (2020 and 2023) and guided the Browns to the playoffs both times. That’s no small feat in Cleveland-he’s the only head coach since Marty Schottenheimer (1984-1988) to lead the Browns to multiple postseason appearances.
If the Browns do decide to move on, Stefanski won’t be short on options. While he’s only served one season as an offensive coordinator, his reputation as a quarterback developer and offensive mind makes him a strong candidate for both head coaching and coordinator roles.
There are a few intriguing landing spots that could make sense.
First up: the Tennessee Titans. They’ve got a promising young quarterback in Cam Ward but no clear long-term answer at head coach. Stefanski’s recent experience working with rookie QBs like Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders could make him an ideal fit to help Ward grow into the role.
Then there’s the New York Giants. With Jaxson Dart under center and a head coaching vacancy, the Giants offer a young offensive core that includes Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo. That trio, paired with a patient front office that gave Brian Daboll over three seasons, could give Stefanski the runway he needs to build something sustainable.
So, what’s next for Stefanski? That’s the million-dollar question in Cleveland.
The Browns have a decision to make-and soon. Whether Stefanski stays in orange and brown or takes his talents elsewhere, he’s going to be a name to watch this offseason.
And if he does land with another team, don’t be surprised if he brings some of that Cleveland grit with him.