Browns to retain Watson as they evaluate rookies Sanders, Gabriel ahead of 2026 Draft
The Cleveland Browns are opting to retain quarterback Deshaun Watson on their roster for the upcoming season, despite his likely absence from play this year.
Why it matters: This decision highlights the Browns' commitment to evaluating their rookie quarterbacks while navigating the complexities of Watson's substantial financial implications on the salary cap.
The Browns have opened the practice window for Watson, allowing him to participate in training sessions while assessing the potential of rookie quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel. The organization’s long-term strategy appears focused on preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold two first-round picks and need to make informed decisions about their future at the quarterback position.
What’s new: Retaining Watson comes with significant salary cap challenges.
- If the Browns were to release Watson before June 1, they would face a staggering dead salary cap charge of approximately $135 million.
- Designating him as a post-June 1 cap casualty would lower that figure to around $53 million, still an unprecedented burden.
By the numbers: Watson's current situation is defined by record-setting financial implications.
- His salary cap charge for 2026 is projected to reach $81.7 million, potentially becoming the highest in NFL history.
- For context, the Denver Broncos currently hold the record for dead cap money with Russell Wilson, amounting to $85 million.
Yes, but: While Watson’s presence on the roster creates financial strain, the Browns may view it as a necessary risk to maintain leverage in negotiating future deals or trades.
- Keeping Watson allows for flexibility should an opportunity arise to restructure his deal or trade him after demonstrating his ability to return from injury.
- The team also must balance the immediate development needs of Sanders and Gabriel with the long-term investment in Watson.
What to watch: The effectiveness of Sanders and Gabriel in their evaluations during the remainder of the season will be pivotal.
- Both rookie quarterbacks have the chance to demonstrate their capabilities in live game situations, which will directly influence the team’s draft strategy moving forward.
- How well they perform could determine if Watson remains part of the team's plans beyond next season.
The bottom line: The Browns face a critical juncture as they navigate Watson's contract situation while simultaneously fostering the growth of their young quarterbacks. The decisions made in the near future will have lasting ramifications on the franchise's trajectory.
