The Cleveland Browns have made a significant change on offense after a disappointing start to the 2025 NFL season. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has officially turned over play-calling duties to offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, hoping to spark a turnaround for a team that was 2-6 as of November 7 (they’re 2-7 right now).
Before Rees’s move, the Browns ranked near the bottom of the league in both total yards and scoring, averaging just 263.5 yards per game and 15.8 points per game. Giving Rees play-calling duties represents a major philosophical shift aimed at creating rhythm, structure, and improved execution.
For Ohio-based fans and bettors keeping an eye on betting markets, this development ties into the evolving environment around Ohio sports betting.
Kevin Stefanski’s Decision to Hand Over Play-Calling
Kevin Stefanski’s decision to delegate offensive play-calling marks a dramatic shift in how the Browns approach game management. Stefanski, known for his calculated style and steady leadership, had long been the team’s offensive architect. But after eight games (as of November 7) of stalled production, he recognized the need for new energy and perspective.
The offense’s inability to generate consistent drives or finish possessions forced the head coach to re-evaluate the structure of his staff.
Stefanski acknowledged the significance of the move, saying, “We have to just get better collectively, so that’s offense … This is the right time for Tommy.” His comments highlight the urgency surrounding the team’s offensive stagnation.
By giving Rees control, Stefanski is trusting his coordinator to add modern concepts, streamline communication, and help the Browns regain balance. The change reflects both accountability and trust in Rees’ vision for a more efficient attack.
Tommy Rees’ Promotion and Offensive Philosophy
Tommy Rees’ promotion from offensive coordinator to primary play-caller gives the Browns a fresh voice at a crucial point in the season. Rees brings an extensive background in offensive design, known for blending rhythm-based systems with aggressive vertical elements. His elevation represents an effort to combine structure and creativity, targeting both efficiency and unpredictability.
Under Rees, the Browns are expected to embrace tempo adjustments, cleaner pre-snap motion, and better sequencing of plays. His focus on modern spacing principles can simplify reads for the quarterback and create cleaner windows in the passing game. Rees also plans to improve protection through quicker play designs, reducing the hits and pressures that have disrupted timing so far this year.
Cleveland’s Offensive Struggles by the Numbers
The statistical picture paints the urgency behind Stefanski’s decision. The Browns’ offense ranks near the bottom of the NFL (before Rees’s move), producing just 263.5 yards per game and 15.8 points per game. These numbers show an offense struggling to sustain momentum, often hindered by penalties, inefficient first-down plays, and breakdowns in pass protection.
The 2-6 record (2-7 as of November 10) underscored more than just schematic issues. The Browns have repeatedly failed to convert red-zone trips into touchdowns and have lacked explosive plays downfield. Their offensive inefficiency has placed additional stress on the defense, forcing Cleveland to play from behind in most contests. Rees’ challenge is to reestablish rhythm while unlocking the full potential of the young quarterback leading the team.
Dillon Gabriel’s Growth as the Starting Quarterback
Rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel is at the center of this transformation. Promoted to the starting role, Gabriel has shown flashes of strong arm talent and poise but has struggled to maintain consistency. The Browns’ offensive reset is designed to accelerate his development while reducing the mental overload that has occasionally limited his decision-making.
Gabriel has thrown for 869 passing yards and seven touchdowns across seven games (five starts), demonstrating an ability to push the ball vertically when protected. However, streaky accuracy and timing misfires have slowed overall efficiency.
Rees’ new structure should provide Gabriel with clearer progressions, more rhythm-based throws, and an improved tempo to keep defenses off balance. His command of the huddle and quick release remain his best assets as the Browns build around his skill set.
Shedeur Sanders’ Role as the Backup Quarterback
Behind Gabriel stands Shedeur Sanders, the talented backup who represents Cleveland’s contingency plan and potential future option. Sanders’ athleticism, pocket composure, and college pedigree have drawn interest throughout the organization. While he has yet to take a regular season snap, his readiness remains a key part of the Browns’ quarterback strategy under Rees’ direction.
Rees and Stefanski view Sanders as an essential part of maintaining quarterback continuity. His preparation during practices and film sessions ensures he can step in seamlessly if needed. Sanders’ understanding of the new system and his natural ability to create off-script plays make him an intriguing developmental asset, giving the Browns depth and flexibility at the most important position.
Rees’ Focus on Offensive Tempo and Creativity
Tommy Rees’ system emphasizes controlled tempo shifts and diversified play-calling to keep defenses guessing. Rather than sticking to predictable sequences, his offense relies on varied pacing, motion-heavy alignments, and run-pass balance. These traits are designed to make the Browns more unpredictable and efficient.
By alternating between quick tempo drives and slower, clock-controlling series, Rees can disrupt defensive rhythm. This variation forces opponents to adjust coverage shells and alignments mid-drive, giving Gabriel easier reads. The Browns’ offensive line also benefits from this approach, as defenders have less time to anticipate snap counts or disguise pressure.
Strengthening Protection for the Quarterback
Cleveland’s offensive line performance has been a recurring problem through the first half of the season. Inconsistent blocking has led to frequent pressure, disrupting rhythm and forcing hurried throws. Rees’ offensive shift aims to simplify protection schemes while increasing the use of quick-developing routes.
The Browns are expected to incorporate more slide protections and running back chip responsibilities to aid the tackles. Simplifying pre-snap communication can help reduce missed assignments and improve Gabriel’s comfort in the pocket. Protecting the quarterback remains essential to establishing rhythm, confidence, and sustained drives.
The Impact on Receivers and Running Backs
The offensive change will also influence how Cleveland’s skill players are used. With Rees’ creative tendencies, receivers and backs will likely see expanded roles in motion, spacing, and play-action designs. These adjustments are meant to generate higher yards after catch and exploit defensive mismatches.
Rees’ system could highlight the versatility of players like Harold Fannin Jr. and Jerry Jeudy, while also reintegrating the running backs into the passing game. Screen plays, quick outs, and intermediate crossers will be key in building offensive rhythm. Creating consistent separation and timing-based routes should allow Gabriel to distribute the ball more efficiently.
The Browns’ Short-Term Path Forward
The Browns face a difficult stretch ahead, with little margin for error. Implementing a new play-caller midseason presents challenges, but it also opens the door for a refreshed offensive identity. Early improvements in red-zone efficiency and third-down conversion rate will serve as early indicators of success.
Offensive progress will be measured through yardage increases, reduced turnovers, and higher points per game. Rees’ system is designed to simplify the playbook and increase speed of execution. If Gabriel and the offense can find consistency, the Browns could salvage momentum heading into the latter part of the season.
Potential Future Adjustments and Personnel Evaluation
If the offense fails to show meaningful improvement, the Browns’ front office could evaluate additional personnel changes to support their young quarterbacks. Offensive depth, protection consistency, and receiver productivity remain areas under close watch.
Should Rees’ adjustments begin yielding progress, the organization may commit more resources to developing continuity in the system. However, if the unit continues to struggle, management may pursue external reinforcements through trade or free agency. The rest of the 2025 season will serve as a proving ground for both the coaching staff and the players adapting to Cleveland’s new offensive direction.