Cleveland Browns’ Coach Kevin Stefanski Addresses Speculation Amid Team’s Struggles

Kevin Stefanski, head coach of the Cleveland Browns, expressed on Tuesday his lack of concern regarding circulating discussions about him being on the «hot seat» amidst his team’s difficult 2-8 start this season. This performance marks the Browns’ poorest commencement since 2017 when they endured a winless season.

During recent weeks, speculation has arisen particularly on local Cleveland radio regarding Stefanski‘s job stability. «I think probably because I grew up listening to [Philadelphia radio], I’m smart enough to not worry about outside noise,» Stefanski remarked. «I get that’s part of this gig. That’s life in the big city. My sole focus is getting this team ready to get a win on Thursday night. That’s it.»

Both Stefanski and the team’s general manager, Andrew Berry, who joined the organization prior to the 2020 season, signed contract extensions in June following their leadership in guiding the Browns to their second playoff appearance in four years. The details of these extensions remain undisclosed by the Browns.

Last season, Stefanski earned his second NFL Coach of the Year award. However, the team has regressed from last year’s 11-win season. If the Browns suffer a loss on Thursday night, it would confirm their 22nd losing season since the team’s return to Cleveland in 1999.

In a significant development, quarterback Deshaun Watson, acquired with three first-round draft picks and awarded a fully guaranteed $230 million deal before the 2022 season, sustained a season-ending injury in Week 7. Watson, who’s started only 19 games for Cleveland, began the 2022 season serving an 11-game suspension following more than two dozen allegations of sexual misconduct.

Following Watson’s injury, Stefanski announced the decision to hand over playcalling responsibilities to offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey, a change made independently according to Stefanski.

During the team’s Week 10 bye, Berry addressed questions regarding job security, stating, «I’ll be honest, neither of us really think of it that way,» he explained. «I’d say number one, to myself, I always view myself as a steward of the organization in this role and really my focus is on doing the things that are in my control, short term and long term, to make sure it’s in the best interest of the franchise. … Kevin’s an outstanding coach and he’s absolutely part of the solution with everything.»