The Cleveland Browns are making moves once again, restructuring Deshaun Watson’s contract in an effort to free up salary-cap space.
The team has been dealing with financial limitations tied to Watson’s massive contract, and this latest adjustment aims to create more flexibility for the future.
Watson’s Rocky Tenure in Cleveland
When the Browns acquired Watson from the Houston Texans in 2022, they made headlines with an unprecedented five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed deal.
At the time, it was seen as a bold move to secure a franchise quarterback.
However, Watson’s tenure in Cleveland has been anything but smooth.
Between an 11-game suspension and multiple injuries, he has played just 19 games in three seasons, raising concerns about whether he can live up to the expectations that came with his record-breaking contract.
The Details of the Restructuring
According to ESPN’s Field Yates, the latest restructuring will free up nearly $36 million in cap space for 2025.
This follows another adjustment made just three months ago in December, when the team modified Watson’s deal to spread out the cap hit beyond 2026.
As part of that agreement, the Browns added a voidable year in 2028, giving them more financial breathing room.
Browns Looking for QB Stability
Despite making the playoffs last season, the Browns’ success came with Joe Flacco at quarterback after Watson suffered a season-ending shoulder injury.
Watson underwent surgery in October and is expected to make a full recovery, but the Browns haven’t confirmed if he will be their starter next season.
Even with Watson under contract, Cleveland isn’t ruling out drafting a quarterback in April.
The team holds the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, and ESPN’s Dan Graziano reports they are considering selecting either Cam Ward or Shedeur Sanders.
The Browns haven’t had a first-round pick in the last three drafts due to the trade that brought Watson to Cleveland, making this a critical decision for the franchise.
A Disappointing Investment So Far
Watson’s time in Cleveland has been frustrating for both the team and its fans.
Once considered one of the league’s top quarterbacks, he has struggled to regain his form.
He has yet to throw for 300 yards in a game with the Browns, and his inconsistent performances have led to questions about whether he can still be an elite player.
Financially, Watson’s contract has also put the Browns in a tough spot.
The fully guaranteed deal remains the largest in NFL history, limiting the team’s ability to make significant roster improvements.
While Watson has shown flashes of potential, his struggles with decision-making and accuracy have left many wondering if Cleveland made the right call.
What’s Next for Watson and the Browns?
Since his shoulder surgery, Watson has been focused on his rehab, staying away from the media and making few public appearances.
The Browns, meanwhile, must decide how to handle the quarterback situation moving forward.
While Watson is expected to return, the team could still bring in competition through the draft.
With the Browns attempting to build a contender, the pressure is mounting.
Whether Watson can finally deliver on the investment remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Cleveland is keeping its options open.