A couple of days ago, Coach Stefanski joined QB Deshaun Watson and Quincy Avery on their podcast for about 20 minutes. For starters, Stefanski was repping a Glenville Tarblooders sweatshirt. I think it is cool to see a coach who cares about the Cleveland community and wants to support the local football teams. Quincy starts the conversation by asking where Stefanski plans to put his second coach of the year trophy. In classic Stefanski fashion, he describes that it is a collective award that encompasses the hard work that the players and the staff put into the season. Deshaun also gives his praise to Stefanski on the job he does with the locker room. Quincy brings up how Stefanski’s demeanor more resembles someone who is laidback, but quickly rebuttals that by referencing that Deshaun says he gets fired up behind the scenes. Stefanski says on gameday he wants to give his team a sense of calm and be the best version of himself. They discuss game-planning during the week, before breaking down a play during the first game of the season against the Bengals. Deshaun asked Stefanski about the differences in calling plays between himself, DTR, or Flacco. Stefanski states he likes calling plays that fit his players’ skills and what they are most comfortable with. The conversation moves to the discussion around the offseason moves the Browns have had so far. Stefanski said the point of emphasis was keeping and bringing in people who fit the culture of the Browns. They wrap up the interview by discussing halftime/in-game adjustments and how quickly things move during that time. They also have a little fun at the end by talking about golf handicaps.
My Key Takeaways
- As I mentioned in the summary, Stefanski has truly embedded himself in Cleveland.
- Despite what some people say, Deshaun and Stefanski have a positive working relationship. You can tell that Deshaun believes in Stefanski by the way he talks about how he handles the locker room and game plan. I think the same can be said for Stefanski still believes in Deshaun. This is evident by the way Stefanski describes Deshaun’s playmaking ability.
- I thought it was a cool insight into the “other side” of Stefanski’s demeanor. I like how he keeps it calm and collected on gameday, but has some juice to him throughout the week.
- Deshaun was thrilled about the addition of Jerry Jeudy and bringing back the key pieces of last year’s roster.
- Probably my biggest takeaway from the interview was that the culture in Cleveland is real. Both the players and coaches are all in on competing for a Super Bowl.
If you have not already, you should watch the interview on YouTube or the Lockerverse app. It’s definitely worth your time!!
Browns fans, what are your takeaways from the podcast? Let me know what you think!