After a brutal 3–14 campaign in 2024, the Cleveland Browns are hitting reset — not just on the field, but in philosophy. At the center of it all is head coach Kevin Stefanski, who appears to be done with compromises. This season, he’s going back to what worked before: his system, his structure, and his vision.
Reclaiming the Offense
Last year’s offensive disaster stemmed from a shift that never should’ve happened. Stefanski tried to cater to quarterback Deshaun Watson’s preferences, firing OC Alex Van Pelt and bringing in Ken Dorsey, only to watch the offense implode.
Now, Stefanski is moving away from “playground football” and returning to the wide-zone scheme that made his early Browns teams dangerous. The hiring of Mike Bloomgren as offensive line coach — a disciple of Bill Callahan — is a strong signal of that change.
He’s also leaning on new talent like rookie TE Harold Fannin Jr., helping reinstate Stefanski’s signature two-tight-end sets.
The Quarterback Carousel Continues
The Browns’ quarterback situation remains fluid. While Joe Flacco is familiar with Stefanski’s play-action-heavy system, his age (40) raises questions about durability and consistency. Still, his five-game run in 2023 remains one of the team’s recent high points.
Originally, it looked like Kenny Pickett might open the 2025 season as the starter — thanks to his ball security and mobility. But a preseason injury derailed those plans. He’s now with the Las Vegas Raiders, while rookie Dillon Gabriel has secured the backup spot.
The Shedeur Sanders Debate
One of the biggest lightning rods of Browns camp has been rookie QB Shedeur Sanders. While some fans and pundits questioned whether he was given a fair shot to compete with Gabriel, insiders say otherwise.
According to reports and at least one NFL coach, Sanders struggled with timing and decision-making during preseason. Browns GM Andrew Berry likened his learning curve to “trying to learn Mandarin after speaking English your whole life.”
Though not ready now, the plan is for Sanders to develop behind the scenes — likely taking over full scout team duties now that Pickett is gone.
A Season of Evaluation
With 12 rookies on the 53-man roster — including six undrafted free agents — the Browns are clearly rebuilding. Add in 10 draft picks in 2026, and it’s clear the front office is treating this year as a fact-finding mission, especially at quarterback.
Barring a breakout from Gabriel or Sanders, Cleveland seems poised to draft a new franchise QB next April.
Stefanski’s Second Act
More than anything, this season marks a shift in power back to Kevin Stefanski. No more appeasing quarterbacks. No more abandoning the core philosophy that once brought success.
Stefanski is back in the driver’s seat — and this time, it’s on his terms.
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