Browns Coach Issues Five-Word Statement Following Firing

The Cleveland Browns shuffled their coaching staff on Tuesday, and former offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt issued a brief statement about being let go.

Van Pelt joined Kevin Stefanski in 2020 as the offensive coordinator. It wasn’t the usual scenario for Van Pelt, who didn’t call the plays. Stefanski, who has taken on the role of play-caller since his arrival, was responsible for this.

Van Pelt spoke briefly with ESPN reporter Jake Trotter after being let go.

“On to the next one,” Van Pelt told Trotter.

Alex Van Pelt tells me he's out as Browns offensive coordinator. "On to the next one. Proud of my time there." AVP had been with Cleveland since 2020. (Also, the Browns fired RB coach Stump Mitchell and not renewed the contract of TE coach T.C. McCartney)

— Jake Trotter (@Jake_Trotter) January 17, 2024

T.C. McCartney, the tight ends coach, and Stump Mitchell, the running backs coach, were also removed.

Trotter provided additional details about Van Pelt’s firing.

“To clarify further on the Alex Van Pelt situation. Per multiple team sources, the Browns discussed a ʻreassignment of rolesʻ with [Van Pelt] on the coaching staff. But ultimately, the two sides opted to part ways,” Trotter wrote.

To clarify further on the Alex Van Pelt situation. Per multiple team sources, the Browns discussed a "reassignment of roles" with AVP on the coaching staff. But ultimately, the two sides opted to part ways. https://t.co/YtNbZrdEDb

— Jake Trotter (@Jake_Trotter) January 17, 2024

It’s an intriguing move by the Browns, who have defied expectations with multiple key injuries on offence. The Browns spent the majority of the season without Pro Bowl running back Nick Chubb, and quarterback Deshaun Watson appeared in only six games.

In Watson’s absence, the Browns used four different quarterbacks: PJ Walker, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, and Joe Flacco.

Stefanski is expected to win NFL Coach of the Year, so it is unusual for a coach with that award to shake up his staff. Van Pelt praised Stefanski in his final press conference of the year before facing the Houston Texans.

“He’s awesome. I’ve enjoyed every second with him. His ability to adjust and adapt with the coolness. It’s just a consistency that he brings every day,” Van Pelt said. “He’s coached a lot of football, different schemes. His ability to again, to change on a dime based on who this player, his starter is at quarterback I thought has been really remarkable. But the message, the culture he’s built here over the last four years, I’m really proud to be on his staff.”

The Browns were eliminated from the playoffs by the Texans in an embarrassing 45-14 loss in the Wild Card round. Cleveland is looking for “fresh offensive ideas,” according to Mary Kay Cabot of cleveland.com.

Browns WR Michael Woods sends well wishes to Alex Van Pelt.

Van Pelt appeared to be popular in the Browns locker room as an offensive leader. Following his departure, wide receiver Michael Woods was among the players who wished him well.

“I appreciate you, AVP. “Good luck, Coach,” Woods wrote.

I appreciate you AVP good luck coach ❤️

— Michael Woods II (@TheMikeWoods) January 17, 2024

The Browns are already actively seeking to fill coaching vacancies. According to Josina Anderson of CBS Sports, former Carolina Panthers assistant head coach and running backs coach Duce Staley visited Cleveland on Wednesday to fill Mitchell’s vacancy.

I’m told former #Panthers assistant head coach/ running backs coach Duce Staley is currently in town visiting the #Browns today, per sources.

The #Browns have a running backs coach vacancy. pic.twitter.com/Zdr1cMztdC

— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) January 17, 2024

Stefanski has led the Browns to one of the league’s best ground games. However, the Browns have struggled this season without Chubb. Cleveland finished the season averaging 115.2 yards rushing per game, but only 3.9 yards per carry, ranking 26th in the league.

In other news, Following playoff loss, the Cleveland Browns undergo a major staff overhaul.