Recent discussions suggest that Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam and head coach Kevin Stefanski may agree to part ways after the current season. This speculation follows Cleveland’s 13-6 victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 31, 2023, and points towards a potential fresh start for Stefanski, who has served as head coach since 2020.
In an article published by ESPN Cleveland/The Land on Demand, insider Tony Grossi expressed his belief that a mutual agreement for separation feels imminent. He noted, “I’ve had the feeling for a couple weeks now that Jimmy Haslam and Kevin Stefanski will part ways amicably after this season.” Grossi emphasized that both parties seem to recognize that Stefanski has taken the team as far as possible during his six-year tenure.
Stefanski’s current situation has been complicated by concerns over organizational dynamics. According to Grossi, Stefanski seems to feel that his coaching career might thrive better outside an environment where there is significant interference in coaching decisions. During a recent media session, he was asked whether he wished to continue with the Browns after two challenging seasons. While he maintained that he is focused on preparing for the season finale against the Cincinnati Bengals, he acknowledged feeling privileged to hold his position.
Regardless of the outcome of the upcoming game, the Browns, with a record of 4-12, are set to complete their fourth losing season in five years under Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry. Reports indicate that the Haslam family may choose to retain Berry due to the promising performances of some players from the 2025 draft class throughout the season.
As speculation mounts regarding Stefanski’s future, he may emerge as one of the most sought-after candidates in the upcoming coaching hiring cycle. If a separation occurs, the Browns could look internally for a replacement. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, who has prior head coaching experience, may be a leading candidate. His defense has consistently outperformed the Browns’ offense this season, ending Week 17 ranked second in the league for total yards allowed per game, with an average of 278.6.
Schwartz expressed openness to the prospect of stepping into a head coaching role during a recent interview. “I’d certainly consider it,” he told Ashley Bastock of the Cleveland Plain Dealer. “I think in any business you aspire to the top. And I’m no different than other people in that way.”
As the Browns prepare to close out the season, the potential for significant changes looms, and both Haslam and Stefanski face pivotal decisions that could reshape the future of the franchise.
