The Cleveland Browns made headlines this Black Monday by firing head coach Kevin Stefanski following a disappointing 5-12 record for the 2025 season. While the decision to part ways with Stefanski was expected, the franchise’s choice to retain general manager Andrew Berry has raised significant concerns among analysts and fans alike. Berry, who shares the same losing record as Stefanski, will now lead the search for the team’s next head coach.
ESPN analyst Mina Kimes expressed confusion regarding the Browns’ trust in Berry, particularly given the team’s lackluster performance during his tenure. Speaking on ESPN, Kimes pointed out that many of the franchise’s struggles can be traced back to decisions made under Berry’s leadership. She highlighted what she considers “the worst trade in NFL history,” referring to the controversial 2022 trade for quarterback Deshaun Watson.
In that deal, Berry sent six draft picks to the Houston Texans, including three first-round selections, and provided Watson with a fully guaranteed $230 million contract. Despite Watson’s previous accolades as a top-tier quarterback, the financial commitment lacked a contingency plan. Since the trade, Watson’s performance has been disappointing, exacerbated by legal issues that led to an 11-game suspension and limited appearances, totaling just 19 games over four seasons.
Kimes noted that the fallout from the Watson trade extends beyond just his individual performance. “It’s not just the quarterback,” she remarked. The Browns’ offensive line has struggled significantly, leading to a dismal average of just 16.4 points per game in 2025 and allowing a staggering 51 sacks. This comes despite having a defense that Kimes described as “Super Bowl-caliber,” led by standout player Myles Garrett.
The decision to retain Berry while dismissing Stefanski has left Kimes questioning the organization’s overall strategy. “Moving on from Stefanski, yes, the offense struggled. But splitting them and keeping the GM… it doesn’t really make sense to me,” she stated.
Despite the criticism, there are factors that may explain the Browns’ decision to maintain stability in their leadership. Berry demonstrated some acumen in the recent draft, notably selecting quarterback Shedeur Sanders with a fifth-round pick. The trade that moved the Browns from the No. 2 pick to the No. 5 pick, alongside securing additional picks, is also indicative of a strategic approach, particularly given the challenges faced by first-round pick Travis Hunter.
As the Browns prepare to hire their 11th head coach since 1999, the question remains: how much does stability matter if the vision for the team’s future appears misguided? Kimes’ critique underscores the ongoing debate about Berry’s leadership and the franchise’s direction as they navigate a challenging period in their history. The decision to keep him at the helm may not only affect the team’s immediate future but also its long-term prospects within the competitive landscape of the NFL.
