Sports

Mike Priefer out as Browns special teams coordinator

Cleveland Browns v Philadelphia Eagles PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 11 2016: A Cleveland Browns helmet rests on the field prior to the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on September 11, 2016 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Eagles defeated the Browns 29-10. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) (Getty Images)

CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns are now in the market for a new special teams coordinator.

The team announced Tuesday that Mike Priefer, had been relieved of his duties.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said he appreciated everything Priefer had done for the team during his four seasons in Cleveland, but “decided to move in another direction in the best interest of our organization.”

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Priefer was hired in 2019 by former head coach Freddie Kitchens, CBS Sports reported.

A highlight of Priefer’s tenure in Cleveland came in 2020 when he stepped in a head coach after Stefanski tested positive for COVID-19 and led the Browns to their first playoff win since 1994.

“I know this city will forever be grateful for the job he did as acting head coach in our AFC Wildcard win and for all his contributions while leading the Browns special team’s units for the last four seasons,” Stefanski said.

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