In the labyrinth of NFL finance management, the Cleveland Browns have once again navigated their way to immediate cap space while kicking the can down the cash-strapped road. In a reported effort to give the team breathing room under the salary cap, the Browns have restructured quarterback Deshaun Watson's contract, according to a source familiar with the team's move who spoke to FOX8. The restructuring introduces a voidable year for 2028, extending the cap hit beyond Watson's current contract, which ends after the 2026 season.
The Browns are positioning themselves for future flexibility despite Watson's spotty on-field performance, which is attributed to limited play resulting from an NFL suspension and a run of injuries. Averaging $46 million a year, Watson's restructured deal added to an already staggering salary-cap hit of $72.9 million for the upcoming seasons, a figure that Cleveland hopes to offset with this latest financial shuffling, Cleveland19 reported.
However, it's not just about the cap space. The team still appears committed to Watson despite him playing only seven games this season before a season-ending Achilles tear. He boasts a record of 9-10 as a starter with the team, which some would say isn't befitting of his hefty contract. With Watson out of the lineup, the Browns' current 3-12 season is a stark contrast to last year's playoff appearance, accomplished with the veteran Joe Flacco at the helm after Watson's shoulder injury.
Even with the uncertainty surrounding Watson's recovery and future performance, the team does not seem keen on pulling the plug. "I think it's always possible," Browns GM Andrew Berry said, according to cleveland.com, referring to Watson's potential to play for the team in the future. Moreover, while voicing his concerns about the team's direction, Brown's defensive star, Myles Garrett, supported Watson in his recovery. "As long as he’s ready and willing to come back, we’re going to support whoever’s behind center," Garrett stated, seeking to quell speculation of a rift between them.
Yet, preparations for the 2025 season and beyond indicate that the Browns keep their options open. With the No. 5 overall pick in the 2025 draft, they can select a top quarterback prospect while also surveying the field for potential trade or free-agency additions to strengthen their quarterback room. Not ruling out competition, the team seeks players who could provide a spark that has been conspicuously absent in recent seasons, with Watson's setbacks casting shadows over his future – and the franchise's fortunes.
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