- NFL. Browns consider bold, historic coaching choice if signing goes through
- NFL. Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders may be on vacation, but that has not stopped them from already being at the center of a fierce battle
Only time will tell whether the Cleveland Browns made a mistake by firing Kevin Stefanski, who was a two time NFL Head Coach of the Year and helped put the franchise back on the competitive map. What is certain is that Stefanski quickly found a new job and is now the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, while the Browns continue their search for his replacement.
Kevin Stefanski's tenure in Cleveland featured more positives than negatives. It is clear he was dismissed due to the last two seasons, which were forgettable years for the franchise. However, before his arrival, the team was in disarray, and under his leadership the Browns reached the playoffs in both 2020 and 2023. In that first appearance, Cleveland earned its first postseason victory since 1994.
The major issues arose during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, when the franchise collapsed, particularly on offense. Inconsistency and Deshaun Watson's injury severely impacted the quarterback position, something Stefanski was unable to fix. In both seasons, Cleveland failed to compete offensively, and it is extremely difficult to succeed in the NFL under those circumstances.
Shedeur Sanders' future in 2026 is uncertain
The biggest controversy surrounding the Cleveland Browns last season was the situation involving Shedeur Sanders. His first opportunity as a starter did not come until Week 11, and from that point on he held onto the job. While he made obvious mistakes, there is no doubt the Browns were more competitive with him than with Dillon Gabriel and Joe Flacco.
Even so, that is not enough to guarantee him the starting role in 2026, especially with the team still searching for its next head coach. Browns analyst Scott Petrak of 92.3 The Fan did not guarantee Sanders' return next season: "I don't think it's guaranteed that Shedeur comes back next year depending on how the QB situation turns out," the analyst said.
Petrak may be right to a certain extent, as Shedeur Sanders generates a lot of attention due to who he is and remains a polarizing player. Still, one thing is clear: Sanders has conducted himself professionally during his time with the Browns, regardless of the criticism surrounding him. Ultimately, the final decision will be made by the team's next head coach.
Shedeur Sanders finished the season with a 3-4 record as a starter, throwing for 1,400 yards, with 7 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions. On top of that, Deshaun Watson is back and, according to reports, will compete for the starting quarterback job during the preseason.