Browns fire coach Stefanski, keep GM Berry: What’s next?

Less than six months ago, coach Kevin Stefanski received a strong show of support cleveland browns Despite owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam attempting to recover from a 3-14 campaign during the organization’s 2024 season.

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

“We have to do better. I think we’ll figure out what better looks like,” Haslam said.

Ultimately, a 5-12 record in 2025 was no better. The Browns announced Monday Stefanski’s firingWho guided Cleveland over 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 left Cleveland with a 45–56 regular-season record and a 1–2 record in the postseason.

In a Monday statement announcing his decision to fire Stefanski, Haslams also said general manager Andrew Berry would be retained and will lead the search for the team’s 11th head coach since 1999.

What’s next for the Browns as they enter the offseason with two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft and a quarterback situation that is shaky at best? Browns reporter Daniel Oyefusi and veteran NFL insider Jeremy Fowler answered all the important questions in the wake of Stefanski’s firing.

What prompted the Browns to move on from Stefanski?

At the beginning of training camp in late July, Haslams acknowledged that the team will take time to rebuild its foundation after three wins in 2024. But in a statement announcing Stefanski’s dismissal, owners said the results over the past two seasons – a combined 8-26 record – “have not been satisfactory.”

The issues were particularly prominent on offense, which has been Stefanski’s specialty. Under Stefanski, the Browns used an NFL-high 13 different starting quarterbacks, and according to ESPN Research, Brown QBs under the coach have ranked in the bottom five in total QBR, yards per attempt and completion percentage.

Cleveland struggled to find consistent answers at quarterback, and its key offensive players began to age, as did the offensive linemen. joel bitonio, Wyatt Taylor And jack conklinAlso tight end David Njoku and running back Nick ChubbHowever, Stefanski was not able to lead the unit to support an elite defense the past two seasons, both of which saw him Give up playcalling duties,

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

Why is Cleveland keeping general manager Andrew Berry?

The 38-year-old Berry will not only continue in his current role, but he will lead the search for the franchise’s next head coach. In his statement, the Haslams noted “the exciting young core that Berry has been responsible for building.” They provided a productive 2025 draft class and Cleveland also acquired an additional first-round pick in 2026 by trading back the second overall pick to No. 5. jacksonville jaguars On opening night of the 2025 draft.

Haslam also referenced other personnel moves made by Berry on Monday, including the free agent signing of defensive tackle malik collinsFinding the breakout kicker andre szmyot And in-season trade for cornerback tyson campbell,

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

Who are the potential candidates for the job?

One factor in determining the direction of the Browns is veteran defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, whose second-ranked defense should be strong once again in 2026. The Browns may look to retain Schwartz and pair him with an offensive-minded head coach. Jimmy Haslam said Monday that the organization thinks highly of Schwartz and would like to keep him in the building. Remember: Maximizing a talented 2025 draft class full of intriguing offensive options is paramount.

So, of course the Browns could interview an offensive coordinator like the Seahawks Clint KubiakBills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher are potential sleepers for this position. Some of the hottest coaching candidates are defensive coordinators, so expect candidates like Chris Shula of the Rams, Jeff Hafley of the Packers, Vance Joseph of the Broncos and Jesse Minter of the Chargers.

Haslam said he has no priority in finding a coach who specializes in offense or defense, but rather he is looking for a good leader to build a strong culture. – Fowler and Oyefusi

How likely are Stefanski to get another head coach job this offseason?

Multiple sources familiar with the leaguewide recruiting process expect Stefanski to become a viable head coaching candidate – possibly one of the most viable. This year’s field is the most open in years, with no clear top target. Having head coaching experience helps. As one high-ranking NFL executive said, two-time Coach of the Year recipients aren’t available very often. Doing it in Cleveland only adds to that accomplishment.

tennessee titans And New York Giants Might want to talk to Stefanski. They have had several weeks to research potential candidates and are hopeful that Stefanski can be available. One flaw on Stefanski’s resume is that he has abandoned offensive playcalling over the past few years, which has dulled the shine of his offensive cache. But of course, Stefanski lacked elite offensive weapons the past two years, and that was burdensome. deshaun watson The contract hindered the progress of the entire operation. Job opening teams will understand all this. — Fowler

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

It’s the last-place AFC North team that will have to start at the most important position no matter who they hire. Perhaps shadure sanders Bridge may be an option in 2026? But having two first-round picks presents a unique opportunity to get a premier passer if the draft goes right. Expect the Browns to explore free agent options Daniel Jones Or malik willis,

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