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Kevin Stefanski Fired, Thanks Fans Amid Coaching Search

1/10/2026

Summary

Stefanski Thanks Fans

Kevin Stefanski, the Cleveland Browns' head coach, was dismissed and published a full-page thank-you ad in The Plain Dealer.
In the notice, he thanked the Dawg Pound for their unwavering support over six seasons.
He posted 45 wins and two playoff appearances, including the Browns' first playoff win since 1999.
Stefanski is pursuing coaching opportunities with the New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders.

Summary

Browns Seek New Coach

The Cleveland Browns fired head coach Kevin Stefanski, prompting General Manager Andrew Berry to pursue an open-minded coaching search.
The Browns have interviewed offensive coordinator Tommy Rees and defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz.
The Browns have expressed interest in former Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel and ex-Ravens coach John Harbaugh.
Analysts, including Robert Griffin III, say the vacancy is among the NFL's worst due to quarterback trouble and dysfunction.

History

Historical Context

The Cleveland Browns, originally founded in 1944, faced a tumultuous history, including a three-year hiatus from 1996 to 1998 after owner Art Modell relocated the team to Baltimore. Reactivated in 1999, the Browns struggled, achieving only four winning seasons since then. Kevin Stefanski's tenure, marked by two playoff appearances in 2020 and 2023, ended amid ongoing franchise instability and quarterback challenges.

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Stefanski Thanks Fans

Kevin Stefanski, the Cleveland Browns' head coach, was dismissed and published a full-page thank-you ad in The Plain Dealer.
In the notice, he thanked the Dawg Pound for their unwavering support over six seasons.
He posted 45 wins and two playoff appearances, including the Browns' first playoff win since 1999.
Stefanski is pursuing coaching opportunities with the New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders.

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