Deshaun Watson’s Achilles tear ends his 2024 season and raises serious questions about the Cleveland Browns’ future. This injury compounds existing financial challenges stemming from Watson’s massive contract.
The Browns, already struggling at 1-6, lost any remaining hope for a turnaround with Watson’s injury against the Cincinnati Bengals. While the return of Nick Chubb offered a glimmer of optimism, the team now faces a daunting financial outlook for the next two seasons and beyond. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Browns’ restructuring of Watson’s contract has created a significant salary cap burden for 2025 and 2026.
Deshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns looks on during warmups before a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Huntington Bank Field on October…Deshaun Watson on the sidelines before his season-ending injury.
Looming Cap Hit Crisis: Schefter Predicts $146 Million Burden
Schefter, appearing on “The Pat McAfee Show,” revealed that the Browns’ decision to restructure Watson’s contract pushed significant financial obligations into future years. This move, intended to create cap space for immediate contention, has backfired spectacularly with Watson’s injury.
Schefter estimates Watson will carry a cap hit of $72.9 million in both 2025 and 2026, totaling a staggering $146 million over two years. This dwarfs the Denver Broncos’ current $85 million dead cap hit from Russell Wilson’s departure, a situation often compared to the Browns’ gamble on Watson. The Browns’ decision to manipulate the cap now leaves them with an albatross of a contract for a quarterback who has consistently underperformed.
Watson’s Troubled Tenure in Cleveland: Defined by Absence
This season was meant to be Watson’s redemption. Following a 5-1 finish in 2023, he aimed to prove his worth after receiving the NFL’s first fully guaranteed quarterback contract. However, his time in Cleveland has been marred by absence.
Deshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns is introduced before a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Huntington Bank Field on October 20, 2024 i…Deshaun Watson being introduced before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
In 2022, a suspension stemming from off-field allegations sidelined him for most of the season. 2023 saw a similar outcome, albeit due to injury. Now, in 2024, another season-ending injury after just six games further solidifies the pattern. Watson’s tenure has been defined not by his on-field performance, but by his inability to stay on the field.
The Future of the Browns: Draft Decisions and Financial Fallout
The Browns now face a critical juncture. With Watson’s massive contract and uncertain future, navigating the salary cap will be a monumental challenge. The team must decide whether to commit to Watson despite his injury history and financial burden, or explore alternative options at quarterback.
The allure of the NFL Draft may be strong once again, but the Browns’ recent history of quarterback acquisitions should give them pause. The Watson experiment has yielded disappointing results, and the team must carefully consider its next move to avoid further setbacks. The financial ramifications of Watson’s contract will undoubtedly impact the Browns’ roster construction for years to come.
Conclusion: A Costly Gamble Gone Wrong?
Deshaun Watson’s injury has exacerbated the already complex financial situation in Cleveland. The Browns’ gamble on Watson has yet to pay off, leaving the team with a massive financial commitment and an uncertain future. The upcoming seasons will test the Browns’ front office as they attempt to navigate the salary cap and rebuild a competitive roster in the wake of this costly setback. Will the Browns find a way to contend despite this significant financial burden, or will Watson’s contract become a crippling weight on the franchise?
