Cleveland, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns have once again modified quarterback Deshaun Watson’s significant contract to enhance their salary-cap flexibility and ensure future options. This information was shared by a source who asked to remain anonymous, as the team does not publicly disclose details regarding contracts.
Watson has participated in only 19 games over the last three seasons due to a combination of an NFL suspension and various injuries. The Browns originally secured his services with a five-year, fully guaranteed deal worth $230 million in 2022. The current restructuring enables the team to distribute the salary-cap impact beyond the 2026 season, providing them with more leeway, especially as this restructuring introduces a voidable year in 2028.
At 29 years old, Watson has two years left on his contract, which averages $46 million annually, accompanied by a salary-cap impact of $72.9 million during that period. According to the source, this recent change will not hinder the Browns’ ability to pursue additional talent at the quarterback position in 2025. After playing in only seven games this year before an Achilles injury sidelined him, Watson holds a starter record of 9-10 with the Browns.
After experiencing a disappointing season with a current record of 3-12, the Browns are struggling to recapture last season’s playoff glory, which was achieved with Joe Flacco stepping in as a free agent after Watson’s season-ending shoulder injury. Following surgery in October, Watson is on track for a complete recovery. While the team has not made any official statements regarding next season’s quarterback, many assume Watson will continue to compete for the starting role.
There is speculation that the Browns could consider drafting a quarterback in the upcoming first round, a strategic move made difficult by their previous trades. They have not had a first-round pick in the last three years due to trades made to acquire Watson, who was once looked at as a top-tier quarterback in the league. Watson’s stint in Cleveland has not lived up to expectations; he has yet to surpass 300 passing yards in any game, causing frustration among fans hoping for stability at the quarterback position.
Watson’s substantial contract— the largest guaranteed deal in NFL history— has posed challenges for the Browns in augmenting their roster. Although there have been glimpses of his potential as a starting quarterback, there have equally been instances where he appeared apprehensive and struggled to effectively connect with his receivers.
Watson faced an 11-game suspension during his debut season with the Browns after being found in violation of the NFL conduct policy. He was accused of sexual misconduct by over two dozen women during massage therapy sessions. Following his surgery, he has been focused on rehabilitation and has remained out of the public eye for months. Recently, he posted an encouraging update on social media showing progress in his recovery.
In a related note, Browns defensive standout Myles Garrett expressed concern about potentially being part of a rebuilding phase in Cleveland. He also specified that he wishes to be informed about the team’s plans for the offseason, particularly regarding the quarterback situation. After his remarks, Garrett noted he had a few conversations with the front office to share his thoughts.
As players look toward the future, there seems to be a collective curiosity regarding the direction the team will take. Garrett mentioned that teammates are also eager for insight into upcoming developments, highlighting a sense of shared anticipation for changes that could potentially reshape the team.
In terms of injury reports, tight end David Njoku (knee), defensive end Ogbo Okoronkwo (knee), and wide receiver Cedric Tillman (concussion) have all been ruled out for the upcoming game. Backup quarterback Jameis Winston (shoulder) is considered questionable, which could lead to Bailey Zappe stepping in as the second-string quarterback behind Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Coach Jason Tarver remarked that linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is in ‘good spirits’ following a neck injury sustained on October 27, but the specifics surrounding his recovery have been somewhat unclear.
