Five Names to Watch Should the Browns Fire Kevin Stefanski
It's been a disappointing season for the Browns that has led to turmoil at the top. If the Browns fire their Head Coach, who will be hired to take over? Five names to watch should the Cleveland Browns fire former Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski.
Brad Stainbrook - December 21, 2022, 4:36 PM EST
3 minFive Names to Watch Should the Browns Fire Kevin Stefanski
The Cleveland Browns are "technically" still in the playoff race, however, the team needs about 15 different things to happen for that to actually become a reality. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has had his highs and lows this season, with the question being....is he safe?
There has been no sign as of yet that would signals Stefanski is on the hot seat. The former NFL Coach of the Year has dealt with key injuries this season, and let's not forget Deshaun Watson's 11-game suspension to start the year. While it is unlikely the team would fire him with this small of a sample size alongside quarterback Deshaun Watson, what coaches could be available this offseason?
Should the Browns fire Kevin Stefanski, here are five names to watch:
1. Dan Quinn, Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys' defense has been one of the best in the NFL since Dan Quinn took over as defensive coordinator in 2021. All-Pro Micah Parsons, who is currently one of the betting favorites to win Defensive Player of the Year, has recorded 40 tackles, 13 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles so far this season.
Quinn has revitalized his coaching career with Dallas after being fired by the Atlanta Falcons in 2020. Quinn, who was involved in interviews last season before deciding to stay with Dallas, will most certainly be involved in multiple head-coaching openings again this offseason and will have the opportunity to pick the team best fit for him.
2. Leslie Fraizer, Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills' defensive coordinator interviewed with the Bears, Dolphins, and Giants last season and is expected to get more interest from teams this year as Buffalo's defense currently allows the 2nd fewest points in the NFL this season.
Fraizer served as the Vikings' head coach from 2010-2013 and recorded a 21-32-1 record during that time. Fraizer interviewed with the Dolphins and Giants last offseason.
3. Jim Harbaugh, Michigan Wolverines
Jim Harbaugh is 74-24 since taking over as Michigan's head coach in 2015. Recording a 25-2 record the past 27 games, Harbaugh is preparing the Wolverines for the College Football Playoffs for the 2nd season in a row after blowing out the Ohio State Buckeyes 45-23 back in November.
There has been chatter among NFL circles that Harbaugh would be interested in returning to the NFL once again this offseason. Harbaugh interviewed with the Minnesota Vikings last offseason before signing an extension to remain with Michigan. While it may not ultimately be in Cleveland, don't be shocked to see Jim Harbaugh back in the NFL.
4. Demeco Ryans, San Francisco 49ers
After wrapping up his playing career in 2016, Ryans quickly made the jump to coaching, joining Kyle Shanahan's staff as a quality control coach in San Francisco. Despite key injuries on the defensive side of the ball, the 49ers' defense has remained at the top of most defensive categories all season long under Ryans.
Ryans interviewed with the Minnesota Vikings last offseason before declining to meet with the team for a second interview. Quickly moving up the coaching ranks since 2017, Ryans is expected to land a head coaching job this offseason.
5. Kellen Moore, Dallas Cowboys
There is a real chance Dallas could lose both Dann Quinn and Kellen Moore this offseason. Moore has served as the Dallas play-caller since 2019 and has the dynamic offense ranked eighth in offensive efficiency since that time.
Moore was a name in the coaching cycle last offseason, interviewing with the Broncos, Dolphins, and Vikings. He'll certainly get more interviews this upcoming cycle as the Cowboys have already clinched a playoff spot.
