Cleveland Browns Fire Head Coach Kevin Stefanski

After six seasons, the Browns part ways with the coach who led the team to its first playoff win in 26 years.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:40pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football game or match, with players and the field of play broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes and forms, capturing the energy and intensity of the sport.The Browns' decision to part ways with their successful but underperforming head coach reflects the team's relentless pursuit of a championship and their willingness to make tough choices in the pursuit of that goal.Cleveland Today

The Cleveland Browns have fired head coach Kevin Stefanski after six seasons with the team. Stefanski, who was named AP NFL Coach of the Year twice, led the Browns to two playoff appearances and multiple 11-win seasons, but the team's performance fell short of expectations in the last two years. Browns ownership expressed gratitude for Stefanski's dedication and leadership, but felt a change in direction was necessary to achieve their goal of sustained success and a championship. General Manager Andrew Berry will oversee the search for a new head coach to build on the team's young talent and take them to the next level.

Why it matters

The decision to part ways with Stefanski, a respected and accomplished coach, signals the Browns' commitment to winning a championship and their willingness to make tough choices in pursuit of that goal. It reflects the high expectations of the franchise and its fanbase, who have endured decades of disappointment and are hungry for sustained success. The move also highlights the delicate balance between loyalty, results, and the need for fresh leadership to take a talented team to the next stage.

The details

Stefanski was appointed head coach of the Browns in January 2020 and immediately made an impact, leading the team to an 11-5 record and their first playoff berth since 2002. He followed that up with another 11-win season in 2023, earning him the AP NFL Coach of the Year award twice. However, the Browns' performance declined in the last two seasons, prompting the team's ownership to make a change. In their statement, the Haslam family praised Stefanski's dedication and character, but acknowledged the need for new leadership to achieve their championship aspirations. General Manager Andrew Berry will oversee the search for a new head coach who can guide the team's young talent and take them to the next level.

  • Stefanski was appointed head coach of the Browns on January 13, 2020.
  • In his debut season, Stefanski led the Browns to an 11-5 record and their first playoff berth since 2002.
  • Stefanski was named AP NFL Coach of the Year in 2020 and again in 2023.
  • The Browns finished the 2025 season with a 5-12 record, leading to Stefanski's dismissal.

The players

Kevin Stefanski

The former head coach of the Cleveland Browns, who led the team to two playoff appearances and multiple 11-win seasons during his six-year tenure.

Dee and Jimmy Haslam

The managing and principal partners of the Cleveland Browns, who made the decision to part ways with Stefanski.

Andrew Berry

The executive vice president of football operations and general manager of the Cleveland Browns, who will oversee the search for a new head coach.

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What they’re saying

“After six seasons as the head coach of the Cleveland Browns, I leave with an immense sense of gratitude. When I arrived in January of 2020, this organization, this community, and Browns fans embraced me and my family with open arms. I cannot express properly in words how good we have been treated.”

— Kevin Stefanski, Former Head Coach

“This decision was tough due to the profound relationships Kevin has fostered throughout the organization. He has been more than just a coach - he has been a trusted partner, a genuine friend, and a steady anchor for the team.”

— Andrew Berry, Executive Vice President of Football Operations and General Manager

What’s next

The Browns will conduct a thorough search for a new head coach who can build on the team's young talent and lead them to a championship.

The takeaway

The Browns' decision to part ways with Kevin Stefanski, despite his accomplishments, underscores the team's relentless pursuit of a championship and their willingness to make tough choices in the pursuit of that goal. It's a move that reflects the high expectations of the franchise and its fanbase, who are hungry for sustained success after decades of disappointment.