The Cleveland Browns are officially turning a new leaf after yet another ugly season. They began the process by parting ways with head coach Kevin Stefanski just one day after their season ended. And now, general manager Andrew Berry has stepped forward with a bold and honest message for fans who had stood by them when the going got tough. Berry acknowledged the pain, but then he also sparked hope for the Browns’ long-term success. 

During his appearance on The Bark Tank podcast, Andrew Berry sat down with host Andrew Siciliano to discuss the major changes happening inside the organization. He spoke directly to the fans amidst the serious talk, remaining blunt and grateful. 

“My message to the fans is we know how difficult this year has been and we appreciate the loyalty, the passion, the commitment to the team, regardless of what we’re going through,” he said. “And that’s something we will never take for granted. My commitment to you all is to make sure that we find the right leader and build the right roster that allows us to have perennial success.”

Berry’s message was both genuine and moving, but fans did see it coming. The Browns came off a solid preseason in which they won every game. However, they fell apart when the regular season kicked off, managing only five wins. The worst part? They didn’t even win two straight games until the very last in Week 17. Statistically, the team’s offensive struggles were on full display as the unit ranked 30th overall (262.1 yards per game). They stood second last in points (16.4) and passing yards (165.2 yards per game).

On the contrary, their defense remained a bright spot. The Browns ranked fourth in ESPN’s ranking, allowing just 283.6 points per game. While they improved from the previous year’s 3-14 record, they lost their second straight season. According to owner Jimmy Haslam and GM Andrew Berry, the team’s roster has talent, and what it actually lacks are development and leadership. And GM Berry is adamant about implementing the required changes. He indeed took the first step by sacking Stefanski earlier this week. 

Andrew Berry’s team fires Stefanski upon season completion

The Browns have officially released Kevin Stefanski from the head coach position after his six-year stint. The announcement came on Monday, a day after the team wrapped up its disappointing season with a 5-12 record. It marked their second consecutive season at the bottom of the AFC North and fourth losing season under Stefanski. So, the signs were there, and owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam didn’t hesitate to acknowledge them. 

“We have tremendous gratitude for Kevin’s leadership of the Cleveland Browns over the last six seasons,” they said in a joint statement. “He is a good football coach and an even better person. We appreciate all his hard work and dedication to our organization but our results over the last two seasons have not been satisfactory, and we believe a change at the head coaching position is necessary.”

Stefanski’s firing came just two seasons after he landed the NFL Coach of the Year award and a contract extension. Interestingly, his resume with Cleveland isn’t that daunting. The former coach finished his tenure with a 45–56 regular-season record and two playoff appearances in 2020 and 2023. While the move stings, Stefanski has nothing but love and gratitude for Andrew Berry’s team.

“When I arrived in January of 2020, this organization, this community, and Browns fans embraced me and my family with open arms,” he said. “I cannot express properly in words how good we have been treated…I wish all of you nothing but success.”

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Now, Stefansi is expected to be in touch with teams such as the Atlanta Falcons, New York Giants, and Tennessee Titans, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. It will be interesting to see where he ends up next.