Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns have reportedly agreed to restructure his contract, suggesting he could stay with the team next season.
Watson originally signed a fully guaranteed five-year deal worth $230 million when the Browns traded three first-round draft picks to acquire him before the 2022 season. He is set to earn $46 million per season through 2026.
The contract restructuring adds two more “void” years to the deal, on top of the two already included. This move will help the Browns stretch Watson’s salary cap hit through the 2030 season, according to ESPN. Despite the changes, Watson would still be a free agent before the 2027 season.
Watson’s time with the Browns has been challenging. After missing the 2021 season due to injuries and legal issues, which led to an 11-game suspension, he has struggled in Cleveland. In 19 games as the starting quarterback, Watson has completed 61.2% of his passes, significantly lower than his 67.8% completion rate with Houston.
He has thrown 19 touchdown passes and 12 interceptions, compared to his Houston record of 104 touchdowns and 36 interceptions.
Watson’s 2023 season was also cut short after a torn right Achilles tendon in October, marking the second consecutive year an injury ended his season early. He also missed the final eight games of 2023 due to shoulder surgery.
The Browns finished second in the AFC North last season and made the playoffs, breaking a 15-year streak of finishing third or fourth in the division. However, they are currently 3-12 and again in last place in the AFC North.
