The Cleveland Browns have made a number of moves over the last two weeks that were almost only about the future. Benching QB Joe Flacco for QB Dillon Gabriel makes sense for both time periods, given how the veteran was playing while trading for OT Cam Robinson was a move for the present.
The Gabriel move, trading away Flacco and trading CB Greg Newsome II for CB Tyson Campbell all seem to be more about 2026 and beyond than this season. Cleveland’s quarterback room now lacks a veteran and Campbell’s
contract being longer than Newsome’s seems to be a reason for that move.
Most believe that GM Andrew Berry’s seat is safe based on his stellar NFL draft class and undrafted free agent group this season. HC Kevin Stefanski, on the other hand, seems to have his seat warming up after losing in Week 5, mostly due to his coaching decisions.
While Berry’s moves seem to be more about the future, will Stefanski be a part of that future? The head coach noted his surprise with the Flacco trade, but noted that he trusted the GM.
Week 6 versus the Pittsburgh Steelers could be a big part of that decision. The Browns do not necessarily have to win a tough AFC North matchup (on the road, after an international game/travel, Steelers lead the division) but the team needs to look competitive and engaged.
Effort from the players, as well as some offensive adjustments, will be a sign that Stefanski has not only not lost the locker room but that he’s willing to do things differently. If Cleveland comes out flat, we see players jogging on the field and the second efforts are not there, Stefanski’s time with the Browns will likely have a countdown clock attached to it.
His departure may not come after the game, as many Browns coaches have experienced against the Steelers, but ownership and the front office will have to question whether a new voice is needed (no matter how good a coach they believe Stefanski is).
On the other hand, if Cleveland comes out strong, and even angry, against Pittsburgh, Stefanski’s seat will remain lukewarm. An AFC North victory might completely end conversations about the head coach’s future, as well as put the Browns right back into contention in the struggling division.
Evaluating effort from the players and creativity/aggressiveness from the offense in Week 6 could be decisive for Stefanski’s future with the team. On Sunday, we find out what direction it will go by watching all of the details, not just the scoreboard.
Do you agree that Week 6 could be decisive or do you think a decision is already written in pen (either way)?
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