The Cleveland Browns fired head coach Kevin Stefanski on Monday morning, the team announced. Stefanski departs at the conclusion of a 5-12 season that highlighted significant dysfunction. The franchise remains in disarray as general manager Andrew Berry will now oversee the search for a coaching successor.
Stefanski was appointed by the Browns in 2020. He immediately led the franchise to its first postseason appearance since 2002 and first playoff victory in 26 years. Stefanski won Coach of the Year honors then and captured that award again in 2023 for his second 11-win campaign.
Stefanski arguably mishandled the Browns' quarterbacking situation this season. Rookie Shedeur Sanders began the campaign as the No. 3 but clearly proved to be the best option when he entered the lineup. With change afoot, we've identified three potential head coaching candidates to succeed Stefanski.
Jesse Minter, Chargers DC
Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter is expected to interview for multiple vacancies this cycle. The Chargers qualified for the postseason in the AFC West. Minter oversees a defense that allowed the fifth-fewest yards per game (285.2) during the regular season.
Minter has spent the better portion of the previous five seasons coaching under both Jim and John Harbaugh. He won a National Championship at Michigan before following Harbaugh to the Chargers. He's essentially graduated from the most prestigious school of coaching. His experiences with two of the NFL's greatest coaches have prepared him for his own chapter.
Vance Joseph, Broncos DC
Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph will be considered a candidate for almost every vacancy. The Tennessee Titans requested an interview with him on Monday morning. Because the Broncos possess a first-round bye in the playoffs, Joseph is eligible to conduct virtual interviews this week.
Joseph became the Broncos' DC and defensive-play caller in 2023 when Sean Payton assumed the head coaching role. The Broncos have arguably fielded the best defense in the league since. Ironically enough, Joseph was Denver's head coach in 2017-18. He struggled in the lead role, compiling an 11-21 record in two campaigns. His latest stint in the Mile High City has rehabilitated his reputation. He'll emerge as a strong candidate if the Browns prefer a stabilizing figure.
Lou Anarumo, Colts DC
Indianapolis Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo is another veteran candidate who has been discussed at large for several vacancies. The Colts failed to qualify for the postseason despite starting 7-1, but that's not really being held against Anarumo. Various quarterback injuries and additional injuries all over the defense ended up limiting their upside.
The Browns are familiar with Anarumo. He was the DC for their rival Cincinnati Bengals (2019-24) for six seasons. The Bengals' defense got significantly worse this year after firing Anarumo, an occurrence that has strengthened his resume and reputation. Like Joseph, he would appease Berry's potential wish for an experienced, stabilizing figure.