Browns HC Kevin Stefanski might not be free agent for long if fired

The Cleveland Browns are less than one week away from deciding on the future of head coach Kevin Stefanski.

After six seasons as the head coach in Cleveland, many have thoughts on his status with the franchise. With just seven wins in two seasons as well, there is reason to believe his time in Northeast Ohio might be coming to an end.

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So what is next for Stefanski? ESPN's Jeremy Fowler has a few ideas. Speaking about the future of the current Cleveland head coach, the NFL insider has stated that he expects Stefanski to be considered for other vacant head coaching jobs around the league.

Where could Kevin Stefanski end up if it's not with the Browns?

Specifically, Fowler names the New York Giants as a team that may strongly inquire about Stefanski's services if he finds himself as a free agent after the 2025 season concludes. Here is what Fowler had to say on the Browns' current head coach:

"Cleveland is a spot people are keeping an eye on, with the idea that Kevin Stefanski could be a head coach candidate elsewhere if the Browns do move on... Stefanski might be the strongest retread candidate in the eyes of many. The Giants would be an ideal fit."

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Stefanski does have two NFL Coach of the Year awards under his belt, and that is sure to count for something.

One complication in finding a new job in 2026

One interesting aspect to keep an eye on, however, is that Stefanski would be due a buyout from the Browns if he were fired. Coaches have to surrender that buyout, however, if they take a coordinator position or another head coaching job the following season. This is why Mike Vrabel, fresh off his firing from the Tennessee Titans, took a role as a consultant with the Browns. He still got his hands dirty, and he still maintained the contractual obligations of his buyout.

If Stefanski is fired, would Vrabel perhaps return the favor before the two-time NFL Coach of the Year looks for another job in 2027?

This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Browns HC Kevin Stefanski might not be free agent for long if fired