The Opening Drive 12/9: Reading Between the Lines on the Rees Report
The bigger story from the Tommy Rees Report, has nothing to do with Tommy Rees.
Mary Kay Cabot’s report that the Browns want to retain offensive coordinator Tommy Rees beyond this season may seem like a straightforward staffing update. However, it actually conveys a much larger message about the organization’s intentions for 2026, specifically, that head coach Kevin Stefanski is likely staying put. Rees initially joined the team as the tight ends coach and was promoted to offensive coordinator by Stefanski this season. On Sunday morning, NFL Network reported that Rees applied for the head coaching position at Penn State. He is well-respected in college coaching circles and could secure a head coaching role elsewhere, especially considering he was a finalist with Bill Belichick for the North Carolina job last year.
If the Browns were contemplating a coaching change after the 2025 season, then it would be rather odd to be publicly indicating such a strong stance on retaining Rees’ services. If Stefanski were on his way out, it would make sense for Rees to leave as well. It doesn’t make sense for the organization to be concerned with extending a current member of Stefanski’s offensive staff if they plan to make significant changes.
Keeping Rees suggests that Browns leadership is inclined to continue with Stefanski, rather than making the much-needed changes that seem so apparent. A commitment to continuity with the same coordinator implies that the head coach who hired him will also be part of the future plans. Thus, while the report focuses on Rees, the underlying message is clear: the Browns are signaling Stefanski’s return in 2026.
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Despite Stefanski’s offensive struggles and a 6-24 record over the last two seasons, the signs point to him receiving another opportunity in 2026. The message may be subtle, but it is unmistakable: the organization believes Stefanski can still turn things around, even with overwhelming evidence suggesting otherwise.
This story could ultimately amount to nothing more than a minor bump in the road to the eventual firing of Stefanski. However, it is difficult to overlook the Haslams’ ongoing praise for him, including their recent comments on his leadership following a week seven win against the Dolphins. It is possible that, despite all evidence to the contrary, the Haslams recognize the need for a new voice at head coach and will make the appropriate moves come season’s end. However, it is also feasible that they think it would be challenging to attract a better head coach, especially with Deshaun Watson still on the roster.
While it’s uncertain, this report about Rees appears to be another indicator pointing to the unsettling idea that Stefanski may indeed receive a pass and be back in 2026.
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I’m curious to hear what people feel he brings to the table. Calm demeanor? I suppose that has some value. But what else?
There are so many more issues than just the X’s and O’s with Stef. His communication style feels hollow, robotic…neutered. He doesn’t have command of all 3 phases of the game. Not by a long shot. He doesn’t move off of bad coaches quickly enough.