Deshaun Watson Returns to Practice, Unlikely to Play in 2026
Deshaun Watson, the quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, has recently returned to practice after suffering a twice-torn Achilles tendon in 2024. Although he is back on the field, it appears unlikely that he will make a playing appearance in 2025.
Watson’s Future with the Browns
The current consensus is that while Watson will not play in the upcoming season, he is expected to remain on the roster through at least 2026. This stems from several financial considerations that the Browns must navigate.
Financial Implications
- The Browns aim to avoid losing $44.274 million in insurance related to Watson’s $46 million compensation for 2025.
- Maintaining him on the team next year is necessary to prevent triggering significant cap charges due to previous contract restructurings.
- Watson’s 2025 salary is guaranteed, making his retention crucial for the team’s financial strategy.
As the Browns look ahead, it would be ill-advised not to allow Watson to compete for the starting role, despite the criticism of his acquisition. Team owner Jimmy Haslam has referred to the initial decision as “a big swing and a miss,” citing it as potentially one of the worst transactions during the salary cap era.
Looking Towards 2026 and Beyond
Watson is set to become a free agent after the 2026 season. Observers note that he may be using the upcoming year to establish himself for future opportunities. At just 31 years old in 2027, he may have various options available.
In summary, while Deshaun Watson’s immediate playing future is uncertain, his place on the Browns’ roster appears solid for 2026, aligned with the team’s financial strategies and his personal career goals.
