Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski is considered a prime candidate for head coaching positions elsewhere if the team moves on after the season, according to multiple NFL executives and coaches who spoke with ESPN. The Browns hold a 6-23 record over the past two seasons, raising questions about Stefanski\'s future in Cleveland.
Several league sources believe Stefanski\'s credentials make him an attractive option in a head coaching candidate pool considered weaker than in previous years. Stefanski won NFL Coach of the Year in 2020 and 2023 amid the Browns\' struggles in other seasons.
\"He\'s a good coach, experienced, two-time Coach of the Year -- Cleveland is a hard place to win,\" an AFC executive told ESPN. \"He might need a fresh start elsewhere.\"
The New York Giants and Tennessee Titans currently have head coaching vacancies. Both positions could benefit from a coach with offensive acumen and experience, fitting Stefanski\'s profile.
If dismissed by Cleveland, Stefanski could pursue a head coaching job immediately or take a year off. The latter approach worked successfully for Mike Vrabel after his departure from the Tennessee Titans.
The decision typically depends on available positions, candidate viability, and whether the coach needs time away from the game.
Cleveland\'s struggles over two seasons have fueled speculation about organizational changes. However, Stefanski\'s reputation around the league remains strong despite the Browns\' poor record during this period.