The future of Kevin Stefanski as head coach of the Cleveland Browns remains uncertain as the team approaches the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season. Following a 23-20 loss to the Buffalo Bills, calls for Stefanski’s resignation have intensified, underscoring the challenges he has faced throughout his tenure. As the Browns prepare for their final game against the Cincinnati Bengals on January 4, 2024, the implications of such a decision weigh heavily on both the coach and the franchise.
While some argue that Stefanski should step down, he is not solely to blame for the current predicament. The Browns’ leadership, including owners Jimmy Haslam and Dee Haslam, along with general manager Andrew Berry, have placed pressure on him to develop a competitive offense, despite the significant limitations of the roster. Currently, the Browns rank 31st in scoring, accumulating just 259 points, ahead of only the 2-14 Las Vegas Raiders.
A significant factor contributing to the team’s struggles has been the performance of quarterback Joe Flacco. After a promising stint in December 2023, Flacco’s return as a starter in 2025 has yielded disappointing results. In his first four games of the season, he threw for a total of 290, 199, 142, and 184 yards, resulting in two touchdowns and six interceptions. His struggles prompted a mid-season trade to the Bengals, where he found immediate success with a stronger offensive lineup.
Stefanski’s track record as head coach is mixed but includes notable achievements. He led the Browns to an 11-5 record in 2020 and an 11-6 record in 2023, earning NFL Coach of the Year honors in both years. Despite these accolades, the current season, with a record of 4-12 and only one game remaining, has raised questions about his future.
The blame for the team’s failures does not rest solely on Stefanski. The Browns’ management has made several questionable decisions, including the firing of offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt to accommodate Flacco and the hiring of Ken Dorsey, who was dismissed after just one season. Throughout the tumultuous seasons of 2024 and 2025, Stefanski has remained a loyal figure, navigating the challenges of a constantly changing roster and coaching staff.
The Browns have faced significant hurdles, particularly in the quarterback position. The absence of experienced players has left the team relying on rookies Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders as their only active quarterbacks. This lack of depth has compounded the difficulties faced by Stefanski and the coaching staff.
Despite these challenges, there have been glimmers of hope. Berry has been recognized for the success of the 2025 draft, which produced key players such as defensive tackle Mason Graham and running back Quinshon Judkins. NFL.com recently ranked the Browns’ 2025 draft class as the best in the league, a rare positive note in an otherwise disappointing season.
As the team looks ahead, the decisions made by the Browns’ leadership will be critical. If they choose to part ways with Stefanski, they risk losing a coach who has previously demonstrated the ability to turn the franchise around. Should he resign, he may forfeit the remainder of his contract, the details of which remain undisclosed.
The coming weeks will be pivotal for the Browns as they evaluate their options. With the offseason approaching, the franchise must determine the best path forward and whether a coaching change is necessary to restore competitiveness. The choices made in the near future will not only impact the team’s immediate prospects but also shape the direction of the franchise for years to come.
