Kevin Stefanski is looking for anything to get the Cleveland Browns offense on track. He proved as much this week by revealing his plans to pass off the always coveted play-calling responsibilities to young, up-and-coming offensive coordinator Tommy Rees. 

The hope is that a different perspective will breathe some life into an offense that is averaging 14.9 points per game. More simply, as Stefanski said on Monday, the goal for the offense is to stay on the field and score some points. 

Players inside the locker room seem open to the change. 

"I think it hasn't really changed much in terms of day to day, just going about our business that way," rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel said of the change. "But I think it'll be good. I think it'd be good for the guys. Just want to get this thing going in the right direction." 

Rees has never called plays at the NFL level, only in college. His first stint as an offensive coordinator came at his Alma Mater, Notre Dame from 2020-2022. In 2023 he joined Nick Saban's staff at Alabama, and helped lead the Crimson Tide offense to the college football playoff. 

That's a phase of his background wide receiver Jerry Jeudy appreciates. 

"A great offensive coordinator, Bama boy," Rees said. "So hopefully he do a good job this week."

Being just a few years removed from coaching in the college ranks could bring a truly unique outlook to the offense. It may also serve to benefit Gabriel, who is one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in college football history, but is still working to find his way in the pros. 

The third-round pick admired Rees from a distance during his college days. Now he'll have a chance to see Rees' philosophies up close and personal. 

"I think he's just, he's eager, he's hungry. He got a lot of knowledge," Gabriel said. "I've been a fan of him from back in college and seeing what he's been able to do. I think he just utilizes players at a high level." 

At the end of the day, though, Gabriel knows Rees can't fix everything. It's ultimately up to him and his offensive teammates to execute. 

"I think with everyone, it's all coming together," he added. "It's never one person. Definitely there could be times of inspiration and help in that way. It's all of us coming together to help each other out, and coach is a good leader for that."

Stefanski was quick to make it clear that at this stage, Rees is more than a college coach. But he does believe his background comes with some benefits. 

"When you’re in the collegiate game, there’s things that are different about the game – so, it does help, as you explain certain concepts or the way defense is played," said Stefanski. "I do think there’s value in that."

As far as how much leeway Rees will have in calling the plays, Stefanski described himself as the "editor-in-chief." Rees will draw up the game plan each week and will have final say in what play gets called, with Stefanski providing support and input as needed. 

"I do think it’s important with a play caller that you have a call sheet of plays that you’re really comfortable with," Stefanski said. "So, certainly this week, making sure Tommy’s got the quote, unquote, final say. I’m letting him kind of put this thing together. Obviously, I’m helping and making my suggestions, but I want him to feel comfortable and confident with what’s on that call sheet."