On January 13th, 2020, the Cleveland Browns hired Minnesota Vikings Offensive Coordinator Kevin Stefanski as the team’s head coach. He was brought in with recommendation of the Browns analytics driven executive Paul DePodesta. Stefanski was considered a new face in the long line of previous Browns head coaches. Stability and job security was not synonymous with the Cleveland Browns. He was the 12th Cleveland Browns head coach since 1999. Two weeks after his hiring the Browns introduced new General Manager Andrew Berry. Cleveland Browns fans were hoping for stability more than success.

In 2020 the Cleveland Browns had a record of 11-5 earning an AFC Wildcard berth. In the AFC Wildcard game, they upset the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh 48-37. Success came early for the first-year head coach and general manager. That early success brought stability to the Cleveland Browns. The next two seasons brought changes at quarterback and hope of landing the coveted franchise quarterback. That hope didn’t last in 2024 for Cleveland.

After trading 3 first round picks and guaranteeing $230 million dollars to Deshaun Watson in March 2022. The Browns earned an AFC Wildcard berth in 2023. They lost in the wildcard game to the Houston Texans 45-14. In 2024 the Cleveland Browns had a record of 3-14. And to the surprise of local sports media, Cleveland Browns ownership has brought back both GM Andrew Berry and head coach Kevin Stefanski for the 2025 season. Watson’s tenure with the Browns has been marred with injuries and poor on field performance. And the Cleveland Browns Owner Jimmy Haslam took responsibility for the bad trade and contract.

In the 2025 offseason Haslam referenced the trade to acquire Deshaun Watson as a” Big Swing and a Miss”, He took accountability for what happened. He did not blame the Coach and General Manager. Which is why they are still employed by the team. Don’t misunderstand me on this, 3 wins in 2025 is not going to be acceptable. Both Stefanski and Berry know that as well. But to say that the coach is on the hot seat is not accurate at this point and time. What is accurate that they both have to do better this season and that also incudes every player on the Cleveland Browns.