Deshaun Watson, the Cleveland Browns quarterback, has a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract that’s proving to be a challenge for the team. With his poor performance and off-field controversies, many are wondering if the Browns can get out of the deal.
The short answer is, not yet. If the Browns were to release Watson after 2024, they’d face a massive $99.8 million loss, roughly 36% of the projected 2025 salary cap ¹. Even designating him a post-June 1 cut would result in a $46 million loss, which is still unacceptable.
The soonest the Browns could cut Watson without losing tens of millions is 2026, the final year of his deal ¹. However, there are rumors about potential contract termination due to a new lawsuit alleging a 2020 sexual assault, which Watson may not have disclosed to the Browns when signing his contract ¹. If true, this could be a way for the Browns to escape the remainder of the agreement.
*Alternatives to Contract Termination:*
– _Trade:_ Highly unlikely due to Watson’s lucrative contract and off-field baggage ¹.
– _Contract Restructure:_ Watson’s representation negotiated a fully guaranteed deal, making this option highly unlikely ¹.
It’s clear that the Browns are stuck with Watson’s contract for now, but the situation is constantly evolving. Would you like more information on Deshaun Watson or the Cleveland Browns?
Leave a Reply