Browns’ Crisis Deepens : The Cleveland Browns’ 2025 season has reached a breaking point following a 23–9 defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers, dropping the team to a dismal 1–5 record. Head coach Kevin Stefanski, once celebrated as NFL Coach of the Year in 2020 and 2023, now faces mounting pressure as the franchise spirals into dysfunction. With three losing seasons in six years and a career record of 41–48, Stefanski’s leadership is under intense scrutiny.
Offensive Collapse Continues
The Browns’ offense remains one of the NFL’s worst, averaging just 13.7 points per game. In the Steelers loss, rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel completed 29 of 52 passes for 221 yards but failed to throw a touchdown. Cleveland settled for three field goals, plagued by drops, penalties, and a porous offensive line that allowed six sacks. Despite promoting Tommy Rees as offensive coordinator, the unit has shown no signs of improvement since firing Ken Dorsey in 2024.
Defensive Efforts Go to Waste
Even the defense, led by Myles Garrett, cannot compensate for the offensive futility. Garrett, who signed a $123 million extension in March, expressed frustration after the game, remarking, “Must be nice,” when asked about Pittsburgh’s pass rushers thriving with a lead. The Browns’ front seven remains a bright spot, but without offensive support, their efforts are wasted in close games.
Front Office Under Fire
Owner Jimmy Haslam has admitted the Deshaun Watson trade was a “significant miscalculation,” further undermining confidence in the front office. General manager Andrew Berry’s roster decisions, including the release of key veterans and reliance on unproven rookies, have also drawn criticism. The team’s 22-game losing streak at Acrisure Stadium highlights a systemic failure that extends beyond coaching.
Calls for Change Grow Louder
Fans and analysts are increasingly vocal about Stefanski’s future. Former coach Bruce Arians questioned his decision-making, stating, “I don’t know how he keeps his job long”. Social media is ablaze with demands for change, with one fan declaring, “Fire everyone”. With the Browns holding two first-round picks in the 2026 draft—expected to be quarterback-rich—the team may be positioning for a full reset.
What’s Next for Cleveland?
Stefanski insists the team will “fight through adversity,” but without immediate improvement, his tenure may be nearing its end. The Browns face a critical juncture: adapt or risk another lost season. As the pressure mounts, the question is no longer if change will come, but when.
