Strategic Planning: Cleveland Browns' Approach with Deshaun Watson and Rookie Quarterbacks
The Cleveland Browns are preparing to have quarterback Deshaun Watson on their roster for the next season, despite the likelihood that he will not play this season. The team recently opened the practice window for Watson to participate in practices, aiming to keep him engaged with football until the next spring. The Browns are focused on evaluating their rookie quarterbacks, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, with Sanders starting his third NFL game against the Tennessee Titans this Sunday and Gabriel having played in the first half of the season. The team's priority is to give their rookies ample playing time and experience throughout the season.
Cleveland's objective is to thoroughly assess their quarterbacks, particularly in preparation for the 2026 NFL draft, where they currently hold two first-round picks. The team anticipates Watson's return next season due to various factors, including financial considerations. Releasing Watson before June 1 would result in a significant dead salary cap charge of nearly $135 million, making it a costly decision for the Browns. Comparatively, the Denver Broncos faced a dead cap charge of $85 million with Russell Wilson, split into charges over two years, which is considerably less than what the Browns would incur with Watson.
In conclusion, the Cleveland Browns are strategically planning to retain Deshaun Watson on their roster for the upcoming season, emphasizing the evaluation of their rookie quarterbacks and considering the financial implications of parting ways with Watson. The team's focus remains on maximizing the development of their young quarterbacks and making informed decisions for the future.