In 2022, the Cleveland Browns took a major risk by signing Deshaun Watson.
Watson's contract had a unique structure due to his impending suspension.
With Watson's full offseason in Cleveland and eight starts, fans are growing concerned about the quarterback position.
Fans in Cleveland are worried about the team's future, given their history of quarterback turnover.
People are wondering when the Browns could part ways with Deshaun Watson if needed.
Watson's contract structure makes it clear that cutting him is not an option for the Browns.
The Browns would incur massive "dead money" penalties if they cut Watson in different seasons.
The “dead money” the Browns would incur if they cut Watson in any of the following seasons: 2023: $220.1 million 2024: $200.9 million 2025: $136.9 million 2026: $72.9 million
These penalties would impact the team's salary cap, making it impossible to field a competitive roster.
Trading Watson is a possibility, but the high dead money figures in the near future make it challenging.
The Browns might have to offer significant draft assets to trade Watson, considering his contract's burden on potential suitors.