Browns to stick with $230 million Deshaun Watson despite struggles
- The Cleveland Browns are expected to retain injured quarterback Deshaun Watson for the next season.
- Watson has not played this season due to an Achilles injury and has faced significant controversies.
- Despite a poor season record, the organization shows confidence in its key leadership and Watson’s return.
In December 2024, the Cleveland Browns, with a disappointing record of 3-10, announced plans to retain quarterback Deshaun Watson for the upcoming NFL season. Watson has been sidelined for the entirety of the current season due to an Achilles injury, and he is expected to return next year alongside head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry. Both Stefanski and Berry have recently secured contract extensions, indicating the organization's commitment to their leadership. The financial implications of retaining Watson are substantial, as he is signed for two additional seasons with a guaranteed sum of $92 million and a significant cap hit of $72.9 million each year. Releasing him would impose an astounding $172 million in dead cap hits for the 2025 season. This challenging situation arises from the Browns' previous trade deal with the Houston Texans in 2022, during which they surrendered six draft picks, including three first-round selections, in exchange for Watson, who was subsequently awarded a fully guaranteed contract worth $230 million. Throughout his tenure with the Browns, which spans three seasons, Watson's performance has raised concerns. He has played in only 19 games, achieving an average passer rating of 80.7. His first season included an 11-game suspension related to multiple allegations of sexual assault made against him while he was with the Texans. Although the NFL concluded its investigation into the recent claims and opted against taking formal action, the weight of these allegations continues to impact public perception. Despite the Browns' struggles this season, the franchise aims to build for the future by keeping both Watson and the current management team intact. The recent contract extensions for Stefanski and Berry further signify the ownership's confidence in their abilities to lead the team back to competitiveness. The Browns entered Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs in a position to possibly secure a favorable draft pick for the 2025 NFL Draft, presenting a silver lining in a tumultuous season.