Browns' Kevin Stefanski on the Brink of Firing After Desperation Move to Shift Play-Calling
The buzz around the Cleveland Browns has not taken a back seat at all this season; heck, the seat has been getting warmer for some members of the organization.
The Browns sit at 2-6 this year, after going 3-14 the previous season, and the media and fans are not holding back their criticism of members of the front office, especially the head coach, Kevin Stefanski.
Although Stefanski has led the team to two playoff appearances and won coach of the year in two seasons, the recent struggles loom larger than the further back success. The main criticism this year has been the offense, only scoring 15.8 points per game, which is third third-fewest in the league, and being in the bottom five in total yards per game (263.5), passing yards per game (174.0), and rushing yards per game (89.5).
Stefanski has been the play caller this season, until yesterday, when he handed over the duties to new offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, marking the second straight season Stefanski has started as the play caller only to give it away midway through the year.
Former Browns offensive guard from 2011-2016, John Greco, went on 92.3 The Fan today and was asked his opinion on how changing play callers affects the locker room.
“It's desperation. When you're in that room, the obvious is becoming a reality,” Greco said. “You have a heightened sense of awareness that this is the next attempt before people start getting fired."
Greco seems to be saying that Stefanski is feeling the pressure to win games and perform, and is pivoting to Rees as the fall guy of sorts. We saw this last year after Stefanski gave the play-calling to Ken Dorsey, although there was not much buzz that Stefanski could be fired, Dorsey got fired at the end of the season.
Greco has experience in this matter, too, as during his time in Cleveland, he had four different head coaches, including Pat Shurmur, Rob Chudzinski, Mike Pettine, and Hue Jackson. So Greco knows what it looks like and what things happen when a firing may be on the horizon.
This move may not be the only one the team makes to try to elevate the offense, either, as there is still a possibility that Shedeur Sanders will get to start soon. Dillon Gabriel has just gotten four games as the starter for the Browns, but with the situation Cleveland is in, where they have multiple picks in the first round of next year's draft, they need to find out what they have soon.
Another desperation move Stefanski could make would be changing the quarterback for the second time this year, but with the change of play callers, they may give Gabriel more time to grow.
BREAKING: Philadelphia Eagles Legend Brian Dawkins is Battling Cancer
The NFL community has been struck with heartbreaking news as reports confirm that Philadelphia Eagles legend Brian Dawkins is battling cancer. A true icon of the Eagles franchise, Dawkins’ fearless play and unmatched leadership made him one of the most beloved figures in NFL history. Now, he faces one of the toughest battles of his life. Fans, former teammates, and the entire sports world are rallying around Dawkins as he begins this personal fight with the same courage and resilience that made him a champion.
Dawkins, a nine-time Pro Bowler and a Hall of Famer, is remembered for his electrifying presence on the field and his leadership as one of the fiercest safeties to ever play the game. His aggressive style, passion, and unwavering commitment to his teammates set him apart as a true icon. Beyond his playing career, Dawkins has remained an influential figure, continuing his work as an advocate for mental health and leadership in the community.
The announcement of his cancer battle has left fans in shock. Known for his larger-than-life personality and inspirational speeches, Dawkins is now facing a challenge off the field that is unlike anything he encountered on it. According to close family and friends, he is receiving treatment and maintaining his trademark optimism despite the difficult road ahead.
“Brian has always been a fighter, and this challenge is no different,” one family member said. “He’s surrounded by love, and we know he’ll tackle this with the same strength he showed in his career.”
The Philadelphia Eagles organization quickly released a statement expressing their full support for their legendary safety: “Brian Dawkins is not only one of the greatest players to ever wear an Eagles uniform, but also one of the most impactful leaders our franchise has ever known. Now, we stand behind him, just as he stood for us. Our thoughts and prayers are with Brian and his family.”
Fans from across the country have begun sharing messages of support, using hashtags like #PrayersForDawk and #DawkinsStrong to show their love and hope. Many have shared personal stories of how Dawkins’ on-field dominance and off-field leadership made a lasting impact on their lives.
Former teammates, including several members of the Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning team, have expressed their support as well. Many recalled Dawkins’ ability to inspire those around him with his relentless drive and passion. Quarterback Donovan McNabb once described him as “the heart of our defense,” and that sentiment continues to echo today.
For Dawkins, this fight is a battle like no other, but his legacy as a competitor suggests he will face it head-on with determination and strength. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that even the greatest athletes face personal struggles, and that courage off the field is just as inspiring as it is on it.
As news spreads, Eagles Nation and the wider NFL community are uniting to support one of the game’s most legendary figures. Brian Dawkins’ story has always been one of resilience, leadership, and triumph against the odds. Now, as he confronts cancer, those same qualities will guide him once more.
The world will be watching, supporting, and cheering—not for touchdowns this time, but for recovery, strength, and hope.
