Recent reports indicate that Kevin Stefanski and the Cleveland Browns may soon part ways, potentially as early as the upcoming NFL “Black Monday.” This speculation comes as the Browns are expected to finish a disappointing season, marking their fourth losing campaign in five years under Stefanski”s leadership.
According to ESPN”s Jordan Raanan, if Stefanski becomes available, he could quickly attract significant interest from the New York Giants. Rumblings connecting Stefanski to the Giants have intensified since Christmas Day, as many view him as a strong candidate for a coaching position.
ESPN”s Jeremy Fowler noted that Stefanski might be regarded as the most appealing retread option available, with the Giants seen as a fitting destination for the 43-year-old coach. NJ Advance Media”s Darryl Slater pointed out that Giants co-owners John Mara and Steve Tisch have not hired a proven head coach since selecting Tom Coughlin in 2004.
Stefanski, who gained recognition as an offensive strategist when he took over in Cleveland in 2020, has twice earned the NFL Coach of the Year Award. The Giants are reportedly looking for an experienced offensive mind to collaborate with their first-round draft pick, Jaxson Dart, who is anticipated to be the starting quarterback moving forward.
“He clearly can coach,” Slater remarked regarding Stefanski. “He also is a well-regarded offensive mind and quarterback molder — something the Giants could use as they build around Jaxson Dart in the years to come.”
However, there are reasons the Giants might hesitate to pursue Stefanski. Under his tenure, the Browns have struggled, achieving a 7-26 record since he won those Coach of the Year honors. The decision to acquire quarterback Deshaun Watson and grant him a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract in March 2022 is believed to have hindered the franchise for years, and it remains unclear how much input Stefanski had in that decision.
Furthermore, the future of Giants general manager Joe Schoen is uncertain. Raanan reports that multiple sources indicated Schoen is likely to stay on despite the team”s 6-27 record over the past two seasons.
