Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski faced significant challenges during the last NFL season, notably when he retained play-calling duties despite hiring offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey. The decision was a response to concerns that the new offense could start slowly, particularly with quarterback Deshaun Watson recovering from surgery. The Browns struggled early, starting the season at 1-6, with Watson at the helm of a historically poor offense.

As the season progressed, Watson suffered an Achilles injury, leading Stefanski to hand play-calling duties over to Dorsey. This decision was partly strategic, allowing Stefanski to focus on team morale amidst a disappointing season. Despite a brief resurgence with a win against the Ravens, the team ultimately finished with a dismal 3-14 record. Moving into 2025, the expectation is for a return to Stefanski's system, with Tommy Rees as the new offensive coordinator.