COLUMN: Holding Reserve on Browns new head coach Kevin Stefanski
Cleveland Browns new NFL football head coach Kevin Stefanski answers a question during a news conference at FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland, Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020.
Jan 22, 2020
Former head coach Freddie Kitchens left the Browns without no choice. Following a disappointing season in which the overhyped Browns took a step back, the team needed a new coach. And that is where today brings us.
Former Minnesota Vikings offensive coordinator, Kevin Stefanski, is now the Browns’ head coach. He’s the hand-picked choice of Chief Strategy Officer Paul DePodesta, but also the runner up to John Dorsey’s selection of Kitchens. Dorset was fired and DePodesta ran the coaching search this time [he is played by Jonah Hill in the movie “Moneyball” if you have ever seen it] (Side note: it may be the worst portrayal in the history of acting). DePodesta’s position with the Browns is centered on analyzing statistics and data to make better-informed football decisions.
Stefanski seems like the runner up, thanks to the media assuming John Carroll University graduate and Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, would be the next leader. However, the Browns tabbing Stefanski could be exactly what the organization needs.
For once, the Browns will all be on the same page and working towards a common goal with the same ideas — the lack of which is a reason why this team has failed so frequently in the past. Stefanski was DePodesta’s guy and Stefanski will have a hand in picking the general manager. How wonderful it will be to have everyone working in unison.
Stefanski has his work cut out for him. Taking over the Browns is the most difficult position in all of sports. Coveted quarterback Baker Mayfield needs more than a fine-tuning, and outspoken personalities Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry need tempering.
Like almost every time before, I refuse to fall in love with a coach because of his introductory press conference. However, I loved one statement he made: “Your personality is welcomed, but your production is required.”
That was the home-run quote that has already found its way onto a t shirt, it could not be more true. This team needs an accountable leader and an intelligent football mind. Whether or not the Browns found that in Stefanski is to be determined.
I am prepared to wait and see.