The Cleveland Browns are staring down yet another offensive identity crisis, and head coach Kevin Stefanski isn’t ready to commit to veteran quarterback Joe Flacco as the team prepares to face the Minnesota Vikings in London this Sunday.
During his post-game and Monday press conferences following a disheartening 20-10 loss to the Detroit Lions, Stefanski sidestepped multiple questions about making a change at quarterback, instead emphasizing the need for improvement across the entire offensive unit.
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“I understand the question,” Stefanski said, via Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal. “We have to play better as an offense. We have to coach better on offense. It’s not about one person. There are so many things that we need to do better and obviously quarterback included, but this is not about one person.”
The Browns’ offensive production has been consistently underwhelming throughout the season:
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Points per game: Have not scored more than 17 points in any contest.
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Last two games: Managed just 13 and 10 points respectively.
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Joe Flacco’s performance:
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Completion rate: 58.1%
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Yards: 815
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Touchdowns: 2
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Interceptions: 6
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The veteran quarterback’s turnover issues, combined with a lack of explosiveness, have left fans and analysts questioning whether a change is overdue.
If Stefanski chooses to pivot at quarterback, rookie Dillon Gabriel would likely be next in line. The third-round draft pick has seen limited action this season, completing 3-of-4 passes for 19 yards and a touchdown in a blowout loss to Baltimore in Week 2.
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When asked directly if Flacco would remain the backup should Gabriel be promoted, Stefanski again declined to provide a clear answer, further fueling speculation that a shift under center could be imminent.
The Browns’ situation is further complicated by the timing of their upcoming international matchup. The team is scheduled to depart for London after Wednesday’s practice in advance of their Sunday showdown with the Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Changing quarterbacks mid-week – especially before a game played overseas – would present significant challenges in terms of game planning, practice reps, and team chemistry. However, with the offense struggling mightily and fan pressure mounting, Stefanski may feel his hand is being forced.
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While Stefanski has yet to announce a definitive decision, his non-committal tone suggests a quarterback switch is at least being considered behind closed doors. All eyes will be on Wednesday’s practice and the travel roster as the Browns attempt to right the ship abroad.
If a change does come, it would mark a pivotal moment in the Browns’ 2025 campaign—potentially turning the page toward a youth movement or further deepening the team’s offensive uncertainty.







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