Browns owner Jimmy Haslam gives clear verdict on Kevin Stefanski's future ahead of Patriots showdown

Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam got honest about Kevin Stefanski's future as the team's coach. According to an article by The Athletic's Diana Russini on Saturday, Haslam remains confident that Stefanski can lead the franchise to success.

"Kevin's done a really good job with us, and we've had some tough breaks," Haslam said. "A big trade (Deshaun Watson trade) we made didn't work out, and, you know, we're all suffering from that.

"Kevin, I thought, really did a great job of rallying the troops last week at a really critical time. You find out about leaders when things are bad, not when they're good, and he did a good job last week."

Kevin Stefanski was hired by the Browns in 2020 on a five-year deal. He has led the team to two playoff appearances. In June 2024, they provided him with a contract extension after an 11-6 campaign and a playoff appearance during the 2023 campaign.

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However, the Browns had a disappointing run last season. They finished fourth in the AFC North with an underwhelming 3-14 record. The season raised questions about Kevin Stefanski's fit with the franchise, putting him on the hot seat. However, the Browns retained him.

After seven games this season, the team once again finds itself in a difficult position with a 2-5 record. Cleveland also has had difficulties at quarterback despite drafting two rookies, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel.

The Browns kicked off the season with veteran Joe Flacco as the QB1. However, he was benched for Dillon Gabriel after losing to the Detroit Lions in Week 4. Flacco was then traded to the Cincinnati Bengals on Oct. 7, and Gabriel took over as the starting quarterback.

JJ Watt shares his thoughts on Kevin Stefanski's decision not to bench Dillon Gabriel for Shedeur Sanders despite offensive struggles

Shedeur Sanders was a projected top three pick before the 2025 NFL draft. However, Coach Prime's son ended up going to the Browns with the 144th pick. He is serving as the backup, still waiting to make his debut.

On Monday, retired NFL star J.J. Watt shared his thoughts on why Kevin Stefanski and his team will not start Sanders in place of Dillon Gabriel.

"If the Browns thought Shedeur Sanders would give them a better chance to win, he would start," Watt said. "And maybe that day does come. I know there are many people out there very much looking forward to seeing what he's capable of at this level if given the chance. Myself included.

"But jobs and livelihood are on the line, coaches and front offices don't just hold players back for no reason. They need to win, and they need to win fast. They'll do whatever it takes for that to happen. The Browns offense hasn't scored over 17 points in 11 straight games. They have clearly been offensive struggles, regardless of who's been playing the QB position."