The Cleveland Browns made significant coaching changes on Sunday, firing offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey and offensive line coach Andy Dickerson after a disappointing 3-14 season. The Browns’ struggles were highlighted by injuries and inconsistent quarterback play, culminating in a 35-10 loss to the Baltimore Ravens in the season finale. This marks the Browns’ worst record since their winless 2017 season, and it was clear that the coaching staff was unable to rectify the issues with the team’s offense.
Dorsey and Dickerson only spent one season with the Browns, who finished 28th in the NFL in total offense and last in scoring. Dorsey, who had previously served as the Buffalo Bills’ offensive coordinator, was hired in February to help improve an offense that was expected to revolve around quarterback Deshaun Watson. However, Watson’s performance was lackluster, as he posted the lowest Total QBR in the league and failed to lead the Browns to consistent offensive production, with the team not reaching 20 points in any of his seven starts.
After Watson’s season-ending Achilles injury in October, Stefanski handed playcalling duties to Dorsey, and the offense showed slight improvement under backup quarterback Jameis Winston. However, Winston struggled with turnovers, throwing eight interceptions in three games, leading to his benching. The Browns then turned to rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson and backup Bailey Zappe to finish the season, with neither able to stabilize the offense.
Dickerson, who was brought in to replace long-time offensive line coach Bill Callahan, also faced challenges. The Browns’ offensive line was ineffective, ranking 28th in rushing yards per game and allowing 66 sacks, with only the Chicago Bears surrendering more. These struggles contributed significantly to the team’s overall offensive woes, highlighting the need for changes in both coaching and personnel.
Looking ahead, the Browns hold a top-three pick in the 2025 NFL draft, and Deshaun Watson, who has played in just 19 games since his high-profile trade, is still under contract for two more seasons. Despite his underperformance, Watson is expected to return, though the team is likely to bring in competition at quarterback. As Stefanski begins his search for a new offensive coordinator, the Browns hope to find a solution that can revitalize their struggling offense and make the most of their talent moving forward.