Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski makes major change for Week 8

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski on the sidelines against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Aug. 21, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio, at FirstEnergy Stadium. Photo Credit: PHIL MASTURZO / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Cleveland Browns will have a new starting quarterback in Week 8 after Deshaun Watson tore his Achilles, and they are making a significant voluntary change as well.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski told reporters on Wednesday that he has decided to give up playcalling duties. Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey will call plays in Sunday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens and going forward.

“I’m going to have Ken call the plays this week. Going forward, that’s the plan,” Stefanski said. “I felt like this was the right move for right now.”

Stefanski added that the decision was one he made on his own.

The 1-6 Browns have been historically bad on offense this season. Stefanski has called offensive plays for the team since he became head coach in 2020, but he left the door open for a change earlier this month.

Dorsey is in his first season as Cleveland’s offensive coordinator. He previously called plays for the Buffalo Bills but was fired midway through the 2023 season.

Stefanski also announced on Wednesday that Jameis Winston will start against the Ravens. The Browns signed a former New England Patriots quarterback earlier in the week who will serve as Winston’s backup.