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Cleveland Browns Restructure Deshaun Watson's Contract, Easing $92 Million Cap Hit Through 2026

Dec 27, 2024, 08:59 PM

The Cleveland Browns have agreed to a contract restructure with quarterback Deshaun Watson, aimed at easing the team's salary cap burden in future years. The adjustment does not impact Watson's 2025 cap number of approximately $73 million but allows the Browns to spread the cap hit over the final years of the contract, which expires after the 2026 season. This move signals that Watson is expected to remain with the Browns for at least the next two seasons. The Browns still owe Watson $92 million fully guaranteed over the 2025 and 2026 seasons, and the restructure does not involve a pay cut or salary conversion. The team plans to bring in another quarterback for competition, either a rookie or a veteran, despite Watson's expected return.