Posted on Nov 03

Browns coach Stefanski hands playcalling duties to OC Rees after struggling offense

Posted Nov 3, 2025

The Cleveland Browns are turning to offensive coordinator Tommy Rees to revitalize their struggling offense as head coach Kevin Stefanski relinquishes playcalling duties for the second straight season.

Why it matters: The Browns currently rank among the NFL's lowest-scoring offenses, averaging just 15.8 points per game. This shakeup comes at a critical juncture in the season as they look to turn their fortunes around and remain competitive.

Contextual statistics: With Dillon Gabriel as the starting quarterback, the team has seen limited production. Gabriel has completed 59.9% of his passes, accumulating 702 yards, five touchdowns, and two interceptions this season, but his Total QBR of 26.8 ranks him among the least effective quarterbacks in the league.

What’s new: Tommy Rees will officially assume playcalling duties during the upcoming game against the New York Jets, hoping to inject some life into the Browns’ offense.

Background on Rees: In his second season with the Browns, he previously served as tight ends coach and pass game specialist. His experience includes roles at prestigious programs like Alabama and Notre Dame, where he demonstrated the capacity to develop a dynamic offense.

Yes, but: Despite the excitement surrounding Rees’s promotion, questions linger about the overall effectiveness of the Browns’ offense, especially with key players absent from practice.

Impact of injuries: Quarterback Deshaun Watson remains on the physically unable to perform list and did not participate in practice this week, while backup Shedeur Sanders is inactive due to a back injury. This leaves Gabriel as the sole viable option under center, further complicating the transition.

What to watch: As Rees steps into this pivotal role, how he adapts the offensive scheme will be crucial. Given the current personnel limitations, he may need to employ a system that emphasizes quick decision-making and short, efficient passes to maximize Gabriel’s potential.

An eye on strategy: The shift could mirror elements of modern spread offenses, which prioritize mismatches and leverage speed in the passing game. This approach might help alleviate pressure on Gabriel while also utilizing the strengths of the receiving corps.

The bottom line: The success of this coaching change hinges not only on Rees’s ability to innovate the offensive strategy but also on the execution by a young quarterback navigating the complexities of NFL defenses.

Stefanski’s confidence: As Stefanski noted regarding Rees, “I have a ton of trust and faith in Tommy. He's more than capable.” The coming weeks will reveal whether this faith translates into improved performance on the field.

Browns coach Stefanski hands playcalling duties to OC Rees after struggling offense

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 3, 2025

Contextual statistics: With Dillon Gabriel as the starting quarterback, the team has seen limited production. Gabriel has completed 59.9% of his passes, accumulating 702 yards, five touchdowns, and two interceptions this season, but his Total QBR of 26.8 ranks him among the least effective quarterbacks in the league.

What’s new: Tommy Rees will officially assume playcalling duties during the upcoming game against the New York Jets, hoping to inject some life into the Browns’ offense.

Background on Rees: In his second season with the Browns, he previously served as tight ends coach and pass game specialist. His experience includes roles at prestigious programs like Alabama and Notre Dame, where he demonstrated the capacity to develop a dynamic offense.

Yes, but: Despite the excitement surrounding Rees’s promotion, questions linger about the overall effectiveness of the Browns’ offense, especially with key players absent from practice.

Impact of injuries: Quarterback Deshaun Watson remains on the physically unable to perform list and did not participate in practice this week, while backup Shedeur Sanders is inactive due to a back injury. This leaves Gabriel as the sole viable option under center, further complicating the transition.

An eye on strategy: The shift could mirror elements of modern spread offenses, which prioritize mismatches and leverage speed in the passing game. This approach might help alleviate pressure on Gabriel while also utilizing the strengths of the receiving corps.

Stefanski’s confidence: As Stefanski noted regarding Rees, “I have a ton of trust and faith in Tommy. He's more than capable.” The coming weeks will reveal whether this faith translates into improved performance on the field.