Cleveland Browns Restructure Deshaun Watson's Contract for Third Time

The restructured deal extends salary cap flexibility through 2030 but raises questions about Watson's future as the starting quarterback.

The Cleveland Browns and quarterback Deshaun Watson agreed to a contract restructuring, adding two more void years to spread salary cap charges through 2030.
Watson remains owed $92 million guaranteed over the 2025 and 2026 seasons, with a $72.9 million cap hit each year—the second-highest in NFL history.
The restructuring allows the Browns to retain Watson while creating cap flexibility, though his performance and injuries have cast doubt on his long-term viability as a starter.
Watson has struggled since joining the Browns, posting a 9-10 record as a starter and suffering back-to-back season-ending injuries, including a torn Achilles in October.
The Browns are reportedly considering adding quarterback competition for the 2025 season via free agency, trade, or the NFL draft, as they hold the No. 5 overall pick.