Kevin Stefanski hints at Browns exit amid links to new job as Myles Garrett delivers verdict on future

Jan 3, 2026 - 15:45
Kevin Stefanski hints at Browns exit amid links to new job as Myles Garrett delivers verdict on future

Kevin Stefanski may coach his final game with the Cleveland Browns against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday.

The two-time AP NFL Coach of the Year has endured another miserable season with three starting quarterbacks combining for a 4-12 record.

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The Browns continue to burn through quarterbacks[/caption]

Shedeur Sanders will finish the campaign looking to put more evidence on tape that he can be the man to lead the organization ahead of what will be a busy offseason.

Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry’s jobs could both be on the line, but the feeling is that some notable hits in April’s Draft — ranked the best group of rookies by NFL.com — could save the latter.

“The Cleveland Browns have done some background work to gather information on potential head-coaching options, and are leaning toward moving on from two-time Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski,” wrote The Athletic’s Dianna Russini.

“With the success of EVP and general manager Andrew Berry’s most recent draft, he’s likely to stay, but those discussions are ongoing heading into Cleveland’s final game at the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. The Browns are 4-12 after finishing 3-14 in 2024.”

Stefanski may not be as fortunate as something has to give after years of poor results.

“Obviously, there’s been a lot of conversation about Las Vegas. There’s been a lot of conversation about Cleveland,” wrote ESPN insider Adam Schefter on Friday. “I don’t think it would be a surprise if either of those two places, if we saw some type of change.”

Stefanski’s future came up in his press conference ahead of the Bengals clash and when the subject of what could be his final game was brought up, he cut a defeated figure.

“You guys know this game is never going to be about one person, and that includes me,” said the 49-year-old.

NFL coaches on red alert as sacking season begins

Black Monday is fast approaching with the brutal nature of the NFL set to result in plenty of coaches and coordinators looking for new jobs.

Stefanski’s past achievements should stand him in good stead and his name has consistently been linked with the New York Giants vacancy.

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Stefanski has been unable to bring a change in fortunes[/caption]
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Garrett decided to stick around and is closing in on greatness[/caption]

“Who shakes free? Kevin Stefanski is a name to watch. He will attract serious interest from the Giants if he’s fired by the Browns,” said ESPN’s Jordan Raanan on Friday.

Myles Garrett is one sack away from breaking the all-time single-season record.

The superstar defensive end signed a four year, $160 million contract extension in March just a month after handing in a trade request in a bid to join a contender.

He was asked if he would have any input in offseason planning with ownership.

“I give my opinion on anything they ask me about,” the future Hall of Famer declared.

Garrett was also quizzed on whether he would like a fresh start or continuity on the sidelines.

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“I want things to be successful, however that looks,” he added crypitcally.

Garrett may be open to a coaching change, but a rebuild is not something he wants to be a part of.

“I’m committed to winning,” he explained. “As long as the team and organization are doing so and committed to that same thing, I’m all on board.

“If we’re thinking anything other than winning — tanking or rebuilding — that’s not me.”

The Browns have two first-round picks in 2026 thanks to a trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars and a quarterback is likely to be on the menu.

Whether Stefanski will be around to help make the decision could be decided as early next week.

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