Cleveland Browns COVID update: Who will coach the Browns?

The Cleveland Browns acknowledged that Kevin Stefanski has tested positive for COVID-19 just days before their game against the Raiders.

Stefanski is still expected to coach in Cleveland’s game against the Raiders on Saturday, assuming he can test negative twice for the virus. As we’ve learned the hard way, however, that’s a rather big assumption.

Here is the Browns’ statement:

"“This morning’s testing round has produced additional positive COVID-19 results. Head Coach Kevin Stefanski, who has been vaccinated and received a booster, has tested positive and has immediately self-isolated,” the Browns said. “He is feeling fine and will continue his head coaching duties virtually as we prepare for the Las Vegas Raiders game on Saturday. Should Coach Stefanski not produce two negative tests by Saturday, special teams coordinator Mike Priefer will serve as acting head coach and offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt will serve as the play caller in Saturday’s game.”"

Who will be Browns’ head coach if Kevin Stefanski is out?

Mike Priefer will act as the Browns’ acting head coach, leading practices and the like until Stefanski is cleared to return after two negative COVID-19 tests. That will not serve as any easy task given the Browns are just a game behind the Ravens in the AFC North, yet also just 1.5 games from the bottom of the pack.

Who is Mike Priefer?

Priefer’s name should sound familiar to Browns fans, as he led the team against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild-Card round last year. Cleveland defeated Pittsburgh to pick up its first postseason win in quite some time.

The Browns are in good hands with Priefer if they need him. For now, though, there remains a good chance Stefanski could return in time by Saturday.