Deshaun Watson contract: Breaking down Browns QB's $92,000,000 restructured deal - Source: Imagn
The Cleveland Browns restructured quarterback Deshaun Watson's contract by spreading $92 million over two seasons instead of all of it hitting the cap in 2027. It does not affect the player's total earnings. He signed a $230 million fully guaranteed contract for five years in 2022, which means he is slated to get $46 million over the next two seasons. That provision still remains intact.
However, the changes benefit the Browns because they can now spread the cap hit over four seasons after Deshaun Watson's contract expires. Before the restructuring, his deal had two void years, 2027 and 2028. Now, it is spread until 2030.
It signals that Cleveland is looking to bring the quarterback next season despite having issues on and off the field. This in itself is not surprising since the contract is guaranteed. The restructured deal frees up more money in years beyond the current obligations. On the flip side, this means that the team will continue to be hamstrung by the salary cap for more years to come.
