The Cleveland Browns have taken steps to restructure Deshaun Watson’s $230 million contract for the 2026 season, freeing nearly $36 million in salary cap space. This move comes amid growing frustration from fans after the team invested heavily to acquire Watson from the Houston Texans in 2022, trading several high-value draft picks along the way.
Despite the massive financial commitment, Watson has struggled with injuries and controversies, leading some supporters to question whether the Browns should cut ties entirely.
Fan Reactions Highlight Frustrations Over Watson’s Performance and Contract
Many Cleveland Browns fans have expressed disappointment and anger over Watson’s time with the team. Some believe the organization should sever ties with the quarterback due to his limited on-field contributions. One fan said,
“What a disaster. Dont give him any opportunity to play. Never wanted to be here in the first place. Just wanted the cash.”
Another urged,
“Just bite the bullet and pay him now lol,”
while a third described the deal as
“Still the worst contract of all time.”
Watson’s Recent Career Struggles and Impact on the Browns
Watson signed a fully guaranteed five-year contract in 2022. However, he has appeared in only 19 regular-season games for Cleveland, missing the entire 2025 season after re-injuring his Achilles tendon. Prior to joining the Browns, he had made three Pro Bowl appearances with the Texans. His tenure with Cleveland has been further complicated by missing the first six games of 2022 due to a suspension connected to sexual assault allegations.
With backup quarterbacks Joe Flacco, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel filling in during Watson’s absence, the Browns have faced uncertainty at the quarterback position. For the 2026 season, Watson is set to earn $46 million, creating additional financial pressure for the team.
New Coaching Staff Maintains Hope for Watson’s Revival
Though many fans express doubts, the Browns’ new head coach Todd Monken remains optimistic about Watson’s potential to contribute. Monken, who has experience working with elite quarterbacks such as Lamar Jackson in Baltimore, highlighted Watson’s previous success in the league. He noted,
“Somehow, we might be able to get that out of him again,”
referring to Watson’s high-level performance before his injuries.
Watson’s impressive 2020 season included leading all players in passing yards and yards per game before missing the 2021 campaign due to injury. However, his performance since joining Cleveland has been underwhelming, with a Total QBR of 33.1—the lowest among qualified NFL passers.
Financial Consequences of the Contract Restructuring and Future Outlook
The Browns will face a staggering $80.7 million cap hit as a result of restructuring Watson’s deal, the highest ever recorded in NFL history. This burden underscores the challenges Cleveland faces balancing player compensation and roster needs.
With Watson’s health and performance issues persisting, the Browns will likely continue to evaluate their options regarding his future on the roster. The contract adjustment provides temporary financial relief but leaves pressing questions about the team’s quarterback position and how to move forward with this costly investment.
#Browns are restructuring Deshaun Watson's contract today to lower his $80.716M cap charge in time to become compliant for the start of the league year, league source tells clevelanddotcom. It gives the Browns flexibility to sign free agents.
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) March 6, 2026
What a disaster. Dont give him any opportunity to play. Never wanted to be here in the first place. Just wanted the cash.
— FletchKnowsSports (@fletch7272) March 6, 2026
Just bite the bullet and pay him now lol
— Steelers Standard (@SteelStandard7) March 6, 2026
Still the worst contract of all time
— SpreadSheetWarriors (@SpreadSheetWear) March 6, 2026
