According to ESPN, the Cleveland Browns have once again restructured their quarterbacks Deshaun Watson's contract. With this move, the Browns have nearly cleared $36 million in salary cap space that will help the team with the cap compliant ahead of the upcoming 2025 National Football League (NFL). Before the restructuring of the contract, the Browns were nearly $22 million above the cap.
Deshaun Watson has two years remaining on his contract
The 29-year-old quarterback has another two years remaining on his five-year contract. He signed a $230 million contract in March 2022 and is still owed $46 million for the remaining two seasons.
He is currently at the Browns' practice facility in Berea, Ohia, where he is rehabbing after retearing his right Achilles tendon three months after his initial injury in October.
What did Andrew Berry say about Deshaun Watson?
During the NFL scouting combine last month, Browns general manager Andrew Berry said that the teams focus is on Watson that he 'gets healthy' and 'there's nothing nefarious, it's just an unfortunate accident'.
The Browns still owe Watson $92 million before his contract ends but Berry is adamant that the deal would not prevent the organisation from being active in the free agency where they will look to sign another veteran quarterback.
Berry added at the combine that the Browns' cap and cash situation will 'not be prohibitive for us to do things if the opportunity presents itself.' This is not the first time that the Browns have restructured Watson's contract, they have converted his salary to signing bonus which can be spread over five years to clear out immediate cap space.
Deshaun Watson will miss 2025 season
Deshaun Watson will miss significant amount of 2025 NFL season as he rehabs from his injury. Due to the injuries and suspensions he has faced, Watson has only managed to play 19 games since the Browns traded three first-round draft picks to acquire his services from the Houston Texans. Deshaun Watson has posted the lowest total QBR in the NFL before his season ending injury.
It is expected that the Browns will get further cap relief via there insurance policy on Watson's contract after he missed 10 games in the 2024 NFL season.