Tommy Rees Takes Reins as Browns' Offensive Coordinator
The Cleveland Browns are shaking things up, elevating Tommy Rees to the role of offensive coordinator, a role crucial for revamping their struggling offense. Previously the Browns' passing game specialist and tight ends coach, the 32-year-old’s promotion comes after just one year with the team. It's a notable step up, placing him in charge of orchestrating an offense that has hit some significant bumps along the road.
A Shift in Coaching Dynamics
This move follows the departure of Ken Dorsey, who was shown the door after only a season in the job. The decision wasn’t entirely unexpected given the Browns’ dismal performance, ranking at the bottom of the league in points per game with a frustrating average of just 15.2. Even worse, they lagged behind nearly every other team in terms of total yards per play, bringing in a meager 4.6. Head coach Kevin Stefanski initially handled the play-calling duties but handed them over to Dorsey by Week 8, which didn’t quite go as hoped.
Tommy Rees: A Promising Resume
Rees joined the Browns following a stint as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Alabama in 2023. Before that, he served in a similar capacity at Notre Dame from 2020 to 2022, underscoring his knack for offensive strategy and quarterback development. Interestingly, the Browns were able to retain Rees’ talents, as he was also under consideration for a position on Mike Vrabel’s staff with the New England Patriots.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
With Klint Kubiak also having been interviewed for the coordinator position—a candidate with familiar ties to Stefanski from their time together in Minnesota—this wasn’t a straightforward choice. However, Rees now faces the challenge of reinvigorating a Browns offense that will likely have to soldier on without Deshaun Watson, who suffered yet another Achilles tear, clouding his availability for the 2025 season.
Looking ahead, the Browns have a critical asset in their arsenal: the No. 2 pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. This offers a glimmer of hope for bolstering the team’s future prospects and potentially finding new talent to complement Rees’ strategic plans.