**Browns Part Ways with Coach Kevin Stefanski After Disappointing Season**
The Cleveland Browns are on the hunt for a new head coach after parting ways with Kevin Stefanski on “Black Monday,” following a challenging six-season tenure. Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who many fans felt was hindered by Stefanski’s coaching, shared his thoughts on the recent coaching change as the team heads into the offseason.
“We just found out a couple seconds ago,” Sanders remarked when asked about the news, according to reports. “I think it’s just overall the mentality; things are gonna happen, that’s just how the league is. Moving forward, we need to focus on what we can improve on individually for the next head coach.”
Sanders’ response was somewhat generic, especially considering he was named the starting quarterback for the final seven games of a disappointing 5-12 season. Drafted in the fifth round, Sanders faced scrutiny, as many believed he was a first-round talent. His draft stock fell, and other teams selected quarterbacks before the Browns had the chance to pick him.
Throughout training camp and the regular season, speculation arose that the Browns were not providing Sanders with a fair opportunity to earn the starting role, leading to criticism of Stefanski’s coaching decisions. Despite the ups and downs, Sanders noted that he and Stefanski began to understand each other better as the season progressed.
“We would share different things that we would both go through,” Sanders explained. “I know he wanted this win, and I know he wants every win, but I know that this one means a lot. I wish we all played as a team, and I wish we could have done more personally within this last year.”
The Browns concluded their 2025 season with a narrow victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, winning 20-18. In that game, Sanders completed 11 of 22 passes for 11 yards and lost a fumble. Reflecting on his rookie season, he stated, “I think I did what I was able to do, and I definitely grew from a lot of things.”
The season began with Stefanski firmly declaring veteran Joe Flacco as the starting quarterback, despite the presence of Sanders and third-round pick Dillon Gabriel. After Kenny Pickett was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders, the competition between Sanders and Gabriel for the backup role became a focal point. Ultimately, Stefanski chose Gabriel, who started six games after Flacco was traded midseason, but struggled with a 1-5 record. Following a concussion to Gabriel, Sanders stepped in and secured his first win as a starter against the Raiders.
As the Browns look to the future, the search for a new head coach will be critical in shaping the team’s direction and maximizing the potential of young talents like Sanders.
**FAQ**
**What led to the Cleveland Browns firing Kevin Stefanski?**
The Browns decided to part ways with Kevin Stefanski after a disappointing 5-12 season, seeking a new direction for the team and a fresh start for the coaching staff.