Jameis Winston is set to make his first start of the season as quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, while Offensive Coordinator Ken Dorsey will take over play-calling responsibilities from Head Coach Kevin Stefanski. These significant offensive changes come as the Ravens prepare to face the Browns on Sunday.
The Browns (1-6) are currently on a five-game losing streak and rank last in the NFL for total offense. The team recently lost quarterback Deshaun Watson to a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 7, after a lackluster season where he recorded five touchdown passes and three interceptions.
Stefanski announced Winston as the starter over second-year quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who suffered a finger injury in Week 7. Thompson-Robinson will not require surgery and is expected to practice this week.
Winston played briefly last Sunday, completing 5-of-11 passes for 67 yards and a touchdown in a 21-14 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. This will be his first start since 2022 with the New Orleans Saints.
“I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity to do what I’m called to do in the NFL as a starting quarterback,” Winston said, expressing his readiness for the challenge.
Dorsey’s promotion to play caller marks the first time Stefanski will not be calling plays since he took over as head coach in 2020. Dorsey previously served as the Buffalo Bills’ offensive coordinator but was let go ten games into last season before joining the Browns in February.
“I’m always looking for ways to improve,” Stefanski remarked. “We need to elevate our offensive performance, and Coach Dorsey is someone I trust deeply in this process.”
