Browns Coach Stefanski Considers Play-Calling Shift Amid 2-6 NFL Season Struggles

The Cleveland Browns, struggling with a 2-6 record, are facing a challenging season with significant offensive issues under head coach Kevin Stefanski. After a disappointing loss to the New England Patriots, Stefanski announced he would use the bye week to reconsider various aspects of the team's strategy, including possibly relinquishing play-calling duties to offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, who has experience at Notre Dame and Alabama but not yet in the NFL. Despite criticism of Stefanski's play-calling and the offense's poor performance, including inconsistent timing and lack of explosive plays, he confirmed that rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel would remain the starter. The Browns are also dealing with injuries to key players like running back Quinshon Judkins, who leads the rushing attack, and linebacker Carson Schwesinger, adding to the team's difficulties. Stefanski emphasized the need to better position players to maximize their skills and improve efficiency and explosiveness on offense. Although there are calls for coaching changes, team owner Jimmy Haslam appears hesitant to fire Stefanski immediately, suggesting he may get another season to turn the team around.