Kirk Cousins, Quarterback
Team: Vikings (2018-19)
- Kirk Cousins joined the Vikings as a free agent in 2018, with Kevin Stefanski serving as his quarterbacks coach. The following year, Stefanski was his offensive coordinator.
Highlight Season: 2019
- While his stats were better in 2018 (70.1% completion rate, 4,298 yards, 30 touchdowns) than in 2019 (69.1% completion rate, 3,603 yards, 26 touchdowns), Cousins led the Vikings to a playoff appearance in 2019, improving their record from 8-7-1 to 10-5. He earned a Pro Bowl nomination, marking his first with the Vikings.
Current Status: Cousins is now with the Atlanta Falcons, having signed a four-year deal in 2024. His journey there has had ups and downs. After a shaky start, he regained his starting spot and helped the team finish strong.
Baker Mayfield, Quarterback
Team: Browns (2020-21)
- Baker Mayfield was already the Browns’ starter for two years when Stefanski became head coach in 2020. Under Stefanski, the Browns made the playoffs for the first time in nearly two decades.
Highlight Season: 2020
- Mayfield enjoyed a breakout year, finishing 11-5 and throwing for 3,563 yards and 36 touchdowns. His performance drastically improved with Stefanski’s guidance.
Current Status: Mayfield is now with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he has found renewed success, leading the team to the playoffs multiple times.
Nick Chubb, Running Back
Team: Browns (2020-24)
- Drafted in 2018, Nick Chubb’s performance soared once Stefanski joined the Browns, reaching over 1,000 rushing yards for three consecutive seasons after Stefanski’s arrival.
Highlight Season: 2022
- In 2022, Chubb rushed for 1,525 yards and scored a career-high 13 touchdowns, showcasing his development as a key player.
Current Status: Chubb recently joined the Houston Texans after spending seven seasons with the Browns, although injuries have limited his recent playing time.
Amari Cooper, Wide Receiver
Team: Browns (2022-24)
- Amari Cooper joined the Browns in 2022 and quickly became a pivotal player, posting over 1,000 yards receiving in back-to-back seasons.
Highlight Season: 2023
- Cooper had a standout year, recording 1,250 receiving yards and breaking the team’s single-game record with 265 yards.
Current Status: Cooper continues to be a strong asset for the Browns and aims to build on his successful stats.
Adam Thielen, Wide Receiver
Team: Vikings (2014-22)
- Thielen joined the Vikings as an undrafted free agent and rose to stardom under Stefanski’s guidance, hitting the 1,000-yard mark in 2017.
Highlight Season: 2017
- This was Thielen’s breakthrough season, earning him a Pro Bowl nomination and recognition as one of the top receivers in the league.
Current Status: Thielen’s journey recently ended with retirement after a season split between the Vikings and Steelers.
Honorable Mentions:
- Joe Flacco: Played under Stefanski with the Browns in 2023 and earned the Comeback Player of the Year award.
- Dalvin Cook: Had his first 1,000-yard season with Stefanski and continued his success afterward.
- Stefon Diggs: Excelled under Stefanski’s coaching, achieving multiple seasons over 1,000 yards before moving to the Bills.
- Kyle Rudolph: A Pro Bowl tight end, alongside Stefanski in Minnesota.
- Joel Bitonio: A consistent performer on the Browns’ offensive line and a seven-time Pro Bowler.
These players have left significant marks in their teams’ histories, showcasing how proper coaching and support can elevate careers. Whether through impressive stats or personal achievements, their journeys highlight the impact of leadership in professional sports.
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