Browns fire Kitchens after one season
The Cleveland Browns have announced the firing of head coach Freddie Kitchens after one season.
Cleveland wrapped up yet another disappointing campaign on Sunday, losing to the Cincinnati Bengals and dropping to 6-10. The Browns haven't finished with a winning record since 2007.
"I would like to thank Freddie for his dedication and efforts this past season," general manager John Dorsey said in a statement. "We are disappointed in our results and feel a change is necessary. Freddie is a good man and good football coach. We wish he and his family nothing but success."
Though reports recently surfaced that he would be retained in 2020, Kitchens appeared to lose the locker room as the season progressed. Tight end David Njoku publicly expressed uncertainty over whether he'd return to the team if the head coach stayed.
Star receiver Odell Beckham Jr. seemed to have clashed with Kitchens as well. Throughout the season, Beckham reportedly encouraged opposing teams to acquire him.
On the field, Cleveland failed to meet lofty expectations after adding several talented players in the offseason. Following his promotion from offensive coordinator in January, Kitchens' offense ranked 21st.
"Our focus is on hiring an exceptional leader for this football team and we will take a comprehensive approach to this process," co-owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam said. "We are excited about the core players we have to build around and develop and we look forward to bringing in a strong head coach that will put this group of players in the best position to succeed."
The Browns' next hire will be the team's 13th head coach since 2000.