Browns Restructure Watson Contract to Clear $36 Million in Cap Space

The Browns have restructured Deshaun Watson's contract, converting a portion of his $46 million base salary into a bonus to clear $36 million in 2026 cap space. Watson, who missed the 2025 season due to an Achilles injury, faces an open quarterback competition under new coach Todd Monken against Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Since joining Cleveland in 2022, Watson has appeared in only 19 games, struggling to regain his Pro Bowl form while the team navigates a 5-12 finish.