Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski struck an optimistic tone on Wednesday as the team turned its attention to the New England Patriots following a dominant 31–6 win over the Miami Dolphins.
While the Browns sit at 2–5, Stefanski shared encouraging injury updates that could boost Cleveland’s chances on the road.
Right tackle Jack Conklin has cleared concussion protocol after missing last week’s game, while tight end David Njoku returned to practice for the first time since injuring his knee in Pittsburgh.
Stefanski described Njoku’s progress as “day-to-day” but sounded hopeful both veterans could be available against the Patriots.
Their return would be critical as Cleveland looks to protect rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who has been under pressure in his first three starts.
Stefanski optimistic as Browns prepare for Patriots and Mike Vrabel’s defense
As Cleveland prepares for Sunday’s matchup in Massachusetts, Stefanski emphasized staying focused after the team’s biggest win of the season.
Conklin’s return offers a much-needed boost to an offensive line that has struggled to keep Gabriel upright, while Njoku’s presence could help both in blocking and as a reliable red-zone target.
“I'm hopeful, but really going to be day to day,” Stefanski said about Njoku’s status. On Conklin, he added, “He's trending. He's doing well. … Out of protocol.”
Stefanski also praised Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, noting his accuracy, mobility, and arm strength.
“He's accurate. Big arm, very mobile… he can scramble. He's very, very fast,” Stefanski said. He also cautioned that defending Maye’s ability to extend plays will require discipline in coverage and rush lanes.
When asked about Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel’s familiarity with the Browns’ system from his advisory role last year, Stefanski downplayed any potential advantage.
“I think having coach here last year, obviously you share a lot of things… but I don't know that there's trade secrets,” he said.
Stefanski maintained that rookie Dillon Gabriel must balance aggression with smart decision-making.
“You don't want to just be conservative for the sake of being conservative,” he said. “We coach our quarterbacks to be aggressive when the time calls for it and let it rip.”
With the Patriots’ defense under Vrabel’s command and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels guiding Maye, Cleveland’s path to a third win will hinge on protection, patience, and discipline — three things Stefanski believes are coming together at the right time.
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