In a move that suggests Deshaun Watson is likely to return as the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback in 2025, the team has agreed to restructure the final two years of his massive contract. The restructure, first reported by NFL Network, does not change Watson’s hefty $72.9 million cap hit for the 2025 season but allows the Browns to spread out the cap impact in later years.
Watson originally signed a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million deal with the Browns after being traded from the Houston Texans prior to the 2022 season. However, his tenure in Cleveland has been tumultuous from the start. The star quarterback served an 11-game suspension in 2022 after facing accusations of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct from over two dozen women.
On the field, Watson has struggled to live up to his big contract. In the 19 total games he has played for the Browns over the past two seasons, Watson has battled injuries and inconsistent play. He posted the lowest total QBR among qualifying passers in 2024 before suffering a season-ending Achilles tear in October.
Browns Remain Committed to Watson
Despite Watson’s rocky start, the contract restructure indicates the Browns are not ready to give up on their investment just yet. Releasing Watson after the 2024 season would have resulted in a league-record dead cap hit of $172 million.
Instead, the Browns seem to be doubling down on Watson as their quarterback of the future. General manager Andrew Berry tellingly stated it was “possible” Watson could return as the starter, while owner Jimmy Haslam voiced support for the front office and coaching staff in their decision-making process.
It’s too early to make any decisions regarding the quarterback position.
– Browns owner Jimmy Haslam
Betting on a Bounce Back
For the Browns, restructuring Watson’s deal is a calculated risk that the 29-year-old can regain his Pro Bowl form when healthy. Prior to the sexual misconduct allegations that derailed his career, Watson was one of the most dynamic playmakers in the NFL.
- In 2020, his last full season, Watson led the NFL in passing yards
- Watson earned Pro Bowl honors in three of his first four seasons
However, after missing the entire 2021 season and playing sparingly the past two years, there are major questions about whether Watson can recapture that elite ability. The Browns are making a big bet that with a full offseason to recover and prepare as the starter, Watson can silence the doubters and prove he is still a franchise quarterback.
Watson’s Future in Cleveland
Ultimately, Deshaun Watson still has a lot to prove both on and off the field to justify the Browns’ massive commitment to him. His legal issues and suspension alienated many fans, while his injuries and poor play have raised doubts about his long-term outlook. But by restructuring his contract, the Browns are signaling they still believe Watson can be the cornerstone of the franchise for years to come.
All eyes will be on Watson in 2025 to see if he can bounce back from two lost seasons and reward the Browns’ faith in him. If he can stay healthy and return to his pre-2021 form, the contract restructure will look like a wise move. But if the struggles continue, the Watson deal could go down as one of the biggest busts in NFL history.
