Tag: Kevin Stefanski

Browns fans loudly booed Deshaun Watson during his home intro as benching talks heat up

Browns fans are so done with Deshaun Watson.

As Deshaun Watson, once accused by more than 20 women of sexual misconduct in what the NFL would later characterize as “predatory behavior,” turns in one of the worst-quarterbacked seasons in league history, talks about benching the Cleveland Brown have only started to heat up.

Of course, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski continues to insist Watson will remain the starter, much to the chagrin and frustration of many people who call Cleveland home. It’s also worth noting that the Browns brought this Watson fiasco upon themselves, and it’s all completely deserved.

Before the Browns’ matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Cleveland home fans loudly voiced their displeasure with Watson’s struggles.

How? They really booed him during his introduction. Oof:

I think it’s safe to say that if Browns fans had a say in the Watson starter situation, he probably would’ve been on the bench a long time ago. Alas, they’ll probably have to wait a while before Stefanski (or Browns ownership) actually pulls the plug.

Two-time NFL Coach of the Year choosing to go down with the ship

Why is he tying his anchor to the quarterback?

The Cleveland Browns and head coach Kevin Stefanski are faced with some of the worst quarterback play in the NFL coming from the arm of Deshaun Watson.

Watson is dead last in Expected Points Added per game, dead last in success rate, 27th in completion percentage, dead last in sacks taken by a country mile, and dead last in QBR.

Yet when asked about the possibility of turning the football over to Jameis Winston, Stefanski reiterated his commitment to Watson:

“I think Deshaun (Watson) gives us the best chance to win, continues to give us the best chance to win, and we need to play really good offensive football at his position and really at every position to be successful on Sunday.”

Stefanski also made a point to reiterate that any football decision made is his to make after being asked if the ownership group was forcing him to play their $230 million quarterback. Could Stefanski be bonded to secrecy? Perhaps.

But if he’s not, and he is truly deciding to play Watson week in and week out despite bottom-three quarterback play, then the two-time NFL Coach of the Year has tied his anchor to a sinking ship.

The Browns’ refusal to bench Deshaun Watson makes Kevin Stefanski look like a doofus

The Browns cannot keep playing Deshaun Watson and acting like it’s a good idea.

The Cleveland Browns seem perfectly content with torpedoing the 2024 season if sticking with quarterback Deshaun Watson is really the team’s plan.

That might seem dramatic, but Cleveland refusing to bench Watson even after his generationally bad play on the football field feels like an act of defiance against football logic and reason.

Sure, the team is going to take a punch to the stomach whenever it does decide to cut ties with the quarterback. That much is certain. However, that shouldn’t dictate how the Browns go about trying to field a winning product.

Cleveland coach Kevin Stefanski’s Monday argument that Watson “gives us the best chance to win” (per CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones) feels like jaw-dropping defiance to the glaring truths facing this team.

It feels like Stefanski is stuck giving the company line from team ownership, a group horrified at publicly admitting that trading the farm for such a morally compromised, injury-prone player like Watson and giving said player a once-in-a-lifetime contract was a really, really, really bad idea.

https://twitter.com/jjones9/status/1845880375429529731

There are tons of football reasons you could use to justify why benching Watson is the right move for Cleveland. He is playing like one of the worst quarterbacks, if not the worst quarterback, in the NFL right now. The Browns are slipping further and further into the basement of the AFC North, too.

Remember: this Cleveland team made the playoffs last season with Joe Flacco playing quarterback. To argue that the Browns should throw this season on the wood stack and let it burn just to keep from admitting the Watson move was an all-time failure feels absolutely ridiculous. It risks losing the locker room, and it risks an empty Huntington Bank Field on Sundays. It’s a selfish move by a team whose historically losing ways are only predestined to the decisions made by those in charge.

The team has two quarterbacks, Jameis Winston and Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who would probably play better than Watson right now. Heck, even a free agent like Ryan Tannehill would probably do a much better job than what Watson is capable of putting on the field. Why should this Browns team pay the price of an unworkable quarterback tanking any chance Cleveland has at making anything from this season matter?

The only thing Watson give Cleveland the best chance of doing is picking first overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. At that point, we’re guessing team ownership has swallowed a very large pill by cutting its losses with Watson and is preparing to watch the team draft the quarterback of the future.

It’s only a matter of time before Cleveland is forced to hit the reset button as the chickens finally come to roost on the disaster that was the Watson trade. Whether the team decides to press that button now or in the offseason is up to debate. If the team refuses to cut Watson even by next offseason, buying a season ticket package for this football team should come with a surgeon general’s warning.

Whether Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry will be there to see any of this through is another question for another day. For now, Stefanski is trapped in giving unbelievable answers to obvious questions.

Until the Browns take Watson off the field for good, that’s life in Cleveland, a rudderless vessel hit by a cannonball, led by unconvincing captains ignoring the rush of water at their feet. Don’t blame the crew when they jump ship.

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Eagles vs. Browns: Best photos from Philadelphia’s 20-16 win over Cleveland in Week 6

Best photos from Philadelphia Eagles 20-16 win over Cleveland Brown in Week 6

It wasn’t the prettiest win, but Philadelphia did enough to avoid an ugly post-bye week loss with a 20-16 victory over the 1-5 Browns in Week 6. On defense, Vic Fangio’s unit held Cleveland to 244 total yards and 3-12 on third down.  The Eagles’ rushing attack was stifled, but thanks to the return of A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, Kellen Moore’s offense was able to amass 256 yards, passing 116 yards on the ground and explosive plays from their top two pass catchers. With preparation for the NFC East opener against the Giants set to begin, here are the top photos from the big win. ***

Report: Ownership not pressuring Stefanski to start Deshaun Watson

A new report suggests no pressure from ownership in the Browns’ decision to stick with their $230 million quarterback

The Cleveland Browns and head coach Kevin Stefanski, despite a league-worst output, have decided to stick it out with quarterback Deshaun Watson.

Many have thought ownership decided this, pressuring the head coach to make their $230 million investment work. However, Cleveland dot com’s Mary Kay Cabot has reported this may not be the case. In her latest Q&A, Cabot answers a question asking whether or not there is pressure from ownership to stick with Watson:

“No, Jimmy Haslam isn’t forcing Kevin Stefanski to play Deshaun Watson with the Browns at 1-4 and playoff hopes slipping away. Kevin Stefanski discusses big personnel decisions with GM Andrew Berry, the same way most NFL coaches do with their GMs. He also talks things over with Haslam and keeps him apprised on such monumental decisions. But the Browns would never force Stefanski to play someone that he didn’t want to play.”

Cabot then confirms what has already been reported over the last two and a half years since the trade as well: Haslam signed off on the trade, but it was general manager Andrew Berry who was at the forefront of the decision. He and Stefanski were in lockstep on that call.

With Watson struggling, how much longer will we see him under center for the Browns if it is truly Stefanski’s call? Could we see Jameis Winston against the Philadelphia Eagles if his struggles continue?

What Kevin Stefanski had to say on possible change to playcalling responsibilities

Are the Browns ready to make a change at playcaller?

Sitting at 1-4, the Cleveland Browns and head coach Kevin Stefanski have many questions to answer.

However, Stefanski is often asked if he is willing to turn playcalling duties over to offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey. The local media again asked him that question on Wednesday as they look to right the ship this weekend against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Here is what Stefanski had to say on the playcalling responsibilities and whether or not he would hand them over to Dorsey:

“I’m comfortable with the amount of collaboration we have right now on the headset and how we operate. So that won’t change. But I do want to emphasize that it’s — number one, we’re constantly looking at things that we can do better. But number two, this is a collective effort from players and coaches to make sure that we are playing better on offense.”

So no, there will be no change in playcaller this week. Stefanski and Dorsey will continue to communicate over the headset, but the head coach will relay the play into the quarterback this week against the Eagles.

We may be closer to swapping out quarterbacks (hopefully) before we get a change with the offensive playcaller.

Browns coach ranks as high-end playcaller over the last 25 seasons

The Browns have a good one.

According to a chart from Football Insights, Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has the sixth-highest explosive play rate of any offensive play caller since 2000.

The Browns’ head coach falls just behind names like Greg Roman, Bobby Slowik, Klint Kubiak, Mike McDaniel, and Chip Kelly. Per Football Insights, an explosive play is defined as a run of 10 or more yards or a pass of 20 or more yards, excluding quarterback scrambles.

https://twitter.com/fball_insights/status/1836551579941437894

On the x-axis of this chart is EPA (expected points added) per play, which measures performance relative to what is expected on a given play. Stefanski doesn’t rank near the very top in this category, but he finds himself comfortably above average and in the top-right quadrant of the chart, which usually signifies great success.

This chart further proves that Stefanski has been one of the best offensive minds during his time with the Vikings and Browns. His ability to maximize his team’s talent and historically elevate quarterback play are the biggest factors behind his being a two-time Coach of the Year with a new contract.

Key matchups for Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Cleveland Browns

Key matchups for Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Cleveland Browns

Coming off a tough loss in South Florida, the Jacksonville Jaguars are set for their home opener against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday as both teams look to avoid an 0-2 start. 

This week Jacksonville looks to be more consistent with its offensive production while Cleveland is again forced to deal with quarterback Deshaun Watson and his off-field issues as the Browns await the return of all-world running back Nick Chubb.

Week 2 will give both teams a better picture of what and who they are moving forward into the 2024 campaign. The Jaguars hope for better execution in their offensive approach following their blown lead to the Miami Dolphins.

With that in mind, Jaguars Wire is here to identify some key matchups for Jacksonville’s Week 2 matchup with Cleveland. Here are three matchups the Jaguars must win to avoid a winless start to the season.

Cleveland QB Deshaun Watson vs. Jacksonville’s defense

One of the key takeaways from this past Sunday was the Jaguars’ admirable defensive performance against the explosive Dolphins offense. They mostly limited significant explosive plays and generated four-man pressures through their front four.

Browns head coach and play-caller Kevin Stefanski is known for his offensive creativity and has put Watson in positions to succeed. But since returning from suspension nearly two seasons ago, the former Clemson standout has yet to return to his pre-2021 form.

Watson’s performance against the Dallas Cowboys offered a clear sign of his current abilities.

According to Next Gen Stats, Watson was pressured on 44.6% of dropbacks, finishing 5-of-17 for 22 yards against pressure while being sacked six times. His 23.2 percent dropback success rate was the lowest in a game in the Next Gen Stats era.

Watson has declined, and the Jaguars have the defense to force him off his spot and into bad decisions. Plus, Jacksonville has the athletic defenders necessary to stick with Watson in quarterback contain.

If defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen’s unit can generate pressures and rattle Watson early, it should be a good day for Jacksonville.

Jacksonville’s offensive line vs. Cleveland’s defensive line

The trenches will be a key matchup in this game but none more crucial than the Jaguars offensive line against the Browns stellar pass rush, led by All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett.

Jacksonville’s front five did a decent job of protecting franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence against the Dolphins, allowing a pressure rate of 32%, ranking No. 14 in the NFL in Week 1.

However, Cleveland defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz is arguably the best in the game at his position and finds ways of consistently getting to the QB. Against the Cowboys, most of the Browns’ pressures came from a defensive front featuring three defensive ends and one defensive tackle.

Having an extra edge rusher lined up at the three-technique could prove disadvantageous for Jacksonville’s guards due to the speed and quickness of Cleveland’s rushers. Schwartz will likely deploy this fairly often in passing situations.

The biggest concern will be if the Jaguars can limit Garrett, arguably the best pass rusher in the world. This offensive line will also have to account for defensive tackles Dalvin Tomlinson and Shelby Harris, and defensive ends Za’Darius Smith and Alex Wright.

Jacksonville seems up for the challenge considering its Week 1 performance. Right guard Brandon Scherff must have a better game after an up-and-down showing in Miami. However, left guard Ezra Cleveland and center Mitch Morse held their own against the Dolphins and can build upon their performances this week. 

Tackles Cam Robinson and Anton Harrison will have a lot on their plate Sunday, but another solid day from these five linemen could signal success for the Jaguars in Week 2. 

Jacksonville’s skill players vs. Cleveland’s back-seven

Once again, the Jaguars’ group of offensive skill players will face another tough secondary only this time on their home turf.

The Browns have a defensive unit that allowed a negative .20 expected points added (EPA) per play allowed. Their back seven is led by star linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah and three-time Pro Bowl cornerback Denzel Ward with more quality defenders roaming the second and third level.

For most teams, including Jacksonville, facing Cleveland’s back seven is a tall task. Nevertheless, the Jaguars have last week’s first-half performance to go off of when it comes to taking on other stout back seven defenders.

Rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. must be a focal point Sunday. The offense was humming when he was being targeted and he adds a level of explosiveness and playmaking ability this unit has not had in quite some time. His zero targets in the second half were inexcusable.

This weekend could be a good time for the Jaguars to deploy Evan Engram into the passing game in his new versatile role as the F-move tight end and fullback. He could be the X-factor against a tough Browns secondary.

Finding explosive plays and getting the ball to the team’s best playmakers will be another crucial aspect in their pursuit of a home-opener victory. 

Browns coach Kevin Stefanski gives Week 1 injury updates

Injury updates galore.

According to ESPN’s Daniel Oyefusi, Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski provided updates on several players from Week 1. Stefanski listed the following players as week-to-week: defensive tackle Maurice Hurst (ankle), tight end David Njoku (ankle), linebacker Tony Fields II (ankle), and linebacker Mohamoud Diabate (hip).

Njoku is the most notable injury here due to his production in the passing game in recent years and his valuable contributions after the catch. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported the injury as a high-ankle sprain, but Stefanski wouldn’t confirm it. If it is a high-ankle sprain, Cleveland will likely need to find a short-term solution alongside Jordan Akins.

Hurst had a great 2023 season as a depth defensive lineman, but the rest of the unit is in good shape and can work through a brief absence. As for Fields and Diabate, the Browns will likely need reinforcements to bolster linebacker depth and special teams contributors.

How to buy Cleveland Browns vs. Dallas Cowboys NFL Week 1 tickets

Tickets are still available for the #Browns home opener against the #Cowboys. Get yours before they’re gone:

The start of the Cleveland Browns’ regular season is just days away.

The Browns and Dallas Cowboys will kickoff their respective regular seasons with a Week 1 matchup on Sept. 8, 2024, at 4:25 p.m. at AT&T Stadium.

This opener features two teams from different conferences that will have high expectations heading into the 2024 NFL season. That will make for an exciting matchup.

Only limited tickets remain for this first game in Cleveland.

SHOP: Cleveland Browns vs. Dallas Cowboys tickets

In terms of the Browns, they will have their front office brass, head coach Kevin Stefanski and GM Andrew Berry, around for awhile after their offseason extensions that were signed. But can DeShaun Watson solidify himself as their starting quarterback after recent injury struggles?

On the flip side, the Cowboys, a big year awaits the names at the top: Quarterback Dak Prescott and head coach Mike McCarthy. Is this their last chance in Jerry World?

Will the Browns or Cowboys take this Week 1 battle between two teams that want to start off on the right foot? Tickets for this contest start as low as $171.

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