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Watson's Contract: Browns Face $86M Cap Crisis
24 Aug
Summary
- Cutting Watson could result in an $86.2 million cap hit in 2027.
- Releasing Watson now would eliminate significant 2027 cap space.
- Browns owe Watson $127 million on his current contract.
The Cleveland Browns are grappling with a complex contract situation involving quarterback Deshaun Watson, with potential salary cap implications that could significantly impact the team's future.
As of August 24, 2026, the Browns owe Watson $127 million. If they were to release him during the 2026 season, the team would face cap hits of $40.9 million in 2026 and a substantial $86.2 million in 2027.
Alternatively, if Watson remains with the team through the 2026 season, Cleveland could opt for a post-June 1st release in 2027. This would spread the remaining payments, resulting in cap charges of $40.9 million in 2026, $36 million in 2027, and $51.5 million in 2028.
These potential dead cap figures far exceed recent high-profile quarterback releases. Russell Wilson's departure from the Denver Broncos incurred a $53 million dead cap, while the Miami Dolphins faced $55.4 million for Tua Tagovailoa, with an additional $43.8 million in 2027.
While a release is financially possible, it appears unlikely given the severe ramifications for the 2027 salary cap. The Browns are projected to have approximately $50 million in cap space in 2027 assuming a post-June 1st release, but releasing him earlier would eliminate this flexibility.
