The Cleveland Browns have infamously made a number of horrendous decisions over the years. Acquiring Deshaun Watson in a blockbuster trade could end up being the worst.
This coming Tuesday, Watson will attend a hearing with the NFL and NFLPA. The expectation is that the NFL will push for a year-long suspension. The NFLPA will fight on Watson’s behalf to reduce it.
Regardless of the suspension outcome, the Browns will reportedly be on the hook to pay Watson $45 million for the 2022 season—even if he’s suspended for the entire year.
That’s right. The Browns may end up paying Watson $45 million to not play a single snap this upcoming season.
Believe it or not, this was intentional by the Browns. They revised his contract so that in the scenario he’s suspended for the year, he doesn’t bear the financial burden.
Cleveland’s front office’s willingness to revise Watson’s contract in such a way is probably a big reason Watson chose the Browns over other options.
Regardless, it’s pretty ridiculous Watson could still make $45 million for the 2022 season even if he’s suspended.