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

Less than six months ago, coach Kevin Stefanski enjoyed a strong show of support from Cleveland Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam despite the organization’s attempt to rebound from a 3-14 campaign during the 2024 season.

But Jimmy Haslam said another three-win season wouldn’t be enough.

“We have to do better. I think we will know what best looks like,” Haslam said.

Ultimately, a 5-12 record in 2025 wasn’t any better. The Browns announced Monday the firing of Stefanski, who guided Cleveland over the past six seasons and led the franchise to two playoff appearances while winning two NFL Coach of the Year awards (2020 and 2023). Stefanski leaves Cleveland with a 45-56 regular season record and a 1-2 playoff record.

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

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

What made the Browns move on from Stefanski?

At the start of training camp in late July, the Haslams acknowledged the team should take its time rebuilding its foundation after a trio of wins in 2024. But in a statement announcing Stefanski’s firing, owners said the results over the past two seasons — a combined record of 8-26 — “have not been satisfactory.”

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

Cleveland struggled to find a consistent answer at quarterback, and its key offensive players began to age, such as offensive lineman Joel Bitonio, Wyatt Teller and Jack Conklin, as well as tight end David Njoku and running back Nick Chubb. However, Stefanski has been unable to lead the unit to support an elite defense over the past two seasons, which has seen him abandon his playmaking duties.

Haslam said Monday there is still work to do to rebuild the roster, particularly on offense, but he believes this year’s team is capable of winning more games. –Oyefusi

Why is Cleveland keeping general manager Andrew Berry?

Berry, 38, will not only remain in his current role, but he will lead the search for the franchise’s next head coach. The Haslams, in their statement, highlighted the “exciting young core to build on,” which Berry has been tasked with building. He delivered a productive 2025 draft class and also gave Cleveland an additional first-round pick in 2026 by moving back from the second overall pick to No. 5 with the Jacksonville Jaguars on opening night of the 2025 draft.

Haslam on Monday also referenced other personal moves made by Berry, including the free agent signing of defensive tackle Maliek Collins, the pursuit of kicker Andre Szmyt and the in-season trade for cornerback Tyson Campbell.

With Stefanski’s absence, Berry, who arrived in Cleveland with Stefanski in 2020, is potentially in the spotlight. He’ll have to continue to build on both sides of the ball and, of course, find a quarterback. –Oyefusi

Who are the potential candidates for the position?

One factor determining the Browns’ direction is veteran defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, whose sophomore defense should be strong again in 2026. The Browns could make a push 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 filled with intriguing offensive options is paramount.

So the Browns could certainly interview the likes of Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher, a possible sleeper for the position. Some of the hottest coaching candidates are defensive coordinators, so expect candidates such as Chris Shula of the Rams, Jeff Hafley of the Packers, Vance Joseph of the Broncos and Jesse Minter of the Chargers.

Haslam said he doesn’t have a preference for finding a coach who specializes in offense or defense, but is looking for a good leader to build a strong culture. –Fowler and Oyefusi

How likely is Stefanski to land another head coaching job this offseason?

Multiple sources familiar with the league-wide hiring process expect Stefanski to emerge as a viable head coaching candidate — probably among the most viable. This year’s field is the most open in years, with no clearly defined goal. Having head coaching experience is helpful. As one NFL executive said, two-time Coach of the Year recipients don’t come around very often. Doing it in Cleveland only amplifies that feat.

The Tennessee Titans and New York Giants will likely want to speak with Stefanski. They had weeks to research potential candidates and expected Stefanski to be available. One downside to Stefanski’s resume is his shift away from offensive play calling in consecutive years, taking away the luster of his offensive cachet. But Stefanski lacked elite offensive weapons at his disposal over the past two years, and Deshaun Watson’s hefty contract stunted the entire operation’s progress. Teams with job offers will understand all of this. — Fowler

How will the coaching change impact the Browns QB situation?

This is a last place team in the AFC North that has to start over at the most important position, regardless of who they hire. Maybe Shedeur Sanders can be a transition option in 2026? But having two first-round picks presents a unique chance to land a top pass rusher if the draft goes right. Expect the Browns to explore free agent options such as Daniel Jones or Malik Willis.

Watson is entering the final year of his record-breaking contract. Even though the relationship appears to be over, he is an option and was once the NFL’s passing leader. Getting him back on the field could affect the Browns’ cap savings thanks to the insurance policy the team has on his $230 million contract. — Fowler