Most successful NFL teams have a secret or subtle background facilitator to thank for their exceptional seasons.
The Cleveland Browns’ secret is a little-known head coach from the greater Philadelphia area.
Actor Justin Hartley revealed the NFL’s Head Coach of the Year Award winner during NFL Honors.
To the amazement of Browns supporters, it went to “Steven” Stefanski, the head coach’s cousin.
Stefanski joked about the flubbed presentation on 92.3. Ken Carman of The Fan (via Andrew Siciliano from NFL Network)
He began his post-award statements by praising his cousin, Steve.
Cleveland’s two-time Coach of the Year went on to describe some of his family members’ emotions.
Stefanski’s son called Steve Stefanski soon away, and Kevin stated his cousin seemed pleased with his reward.
The genuine head coach claims Steve’s phone “blew up,” indicating that the humor reaches beyond the close family.
Stefanski seems thrilled with how the gaffe turned out to be a wonderful evening for his entire family.
However, he is not taking the gaffe lightly, as he later informed Rich Eisen.
Cleveland’s analytics expert says he’s not sure what TV show Hartley was promoting.
Stefanski joins an exclusive group of multi-time NFL Coach of the Year winners.
That is, providing he can get it from Cousin Steve.
Kevin Stefanski celebrates Browns Award Winners At NFL Honors
The Cleveland Browns may have missed the playoffs, but they still made a significant impression this season.
In 2023, the Browns overcame season-ending injuries to key players by starting five different quarterbacks.
Despite the setbacks, Cleveland rallied, winning 11 games and making the playoffs for the third time since 1999.
Several Browns were honored for their work in 2023 at Thursday’s annual NFL Honors presentation.
Myles Garrett was awarded Defensive Player of the Year, while Joe Flacco was chosen as NFL Comeback Player of the Year.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski was voted Coach of the Year for the second consecutive year, while defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz was selected Assistant Coach of the Year.
On Thursday, Stefanski went on Twitter to acknowledge Garrett, Flacco, and Schwartz
Stefanski then complimented Flacco.
“Joe Flacco: from sofa to starting lineup. What he was able to do on and off the field was very extraordinary, and I am proud of Joe.”
Garrett received his first Defensive Player of the Year award, which was not surprising to most football fans.
“Myles Garrett, I’m running out of superlatives, guys,” Stefanski said. “That appears to be the Defensive Player of the Year. This distinction is extremely well-deserved.”
Stefanski closed his statement by thanking Browns fans and expressing humility over being named Coach of the Year.
“I am honored. As you know, I couldn’t do this on my own. I have amazing support from everyone in this building. Our coaches, players, and staff. I am extremely lucky and grateful; I could not achieve this by myself.”
