Deshaun Watson could earn a new contract with the Cleveland Browns if he continues to deliver wins, but the quarterback faces a major problem when it comes to negotiating his next deal.
According to The Athletic’s Jonathan Jones, Watson has a chance to extend his stay in Cleveland after an encouraging start to the season. However, his lack of options elsewhere could leave him with little leverage at the negotiating table.
The veteran is in the final season of his fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract, which he signed after arriving from the Houston Texans in 2022.
Deshaun Watson’s lack of options could hurt Cleveland Browns contract talks
Watson has given Cleveland reasons to reconsider his future after helping the Browns move to 4-2. He has produced four game-winning drives this season, rebuilding some of the value he lost through injuries and inconsistent performances.
A league source offered a blunt assessment of the quarterback’s situation, telling Jones: “It’s the only line on a starting quarterback job he’ll have.”
Jones also highlighted the difficulty Watson could face in securing another deal at the going rate for starting quarterbacks.
“On one hand, if Watson continues playing at this level, the team would feel the need to retain him. On the other hand, what leverage would he conceivably have outside of Cleveland?” Jones said.
Watson’s injury record remains a concern. He has made just 19 appearances for the Browns and missed the entire 2025 season after dealing with a lengthy suspension, shoulder surgery and two Achilles surgeries.
His recent performances have helped change the conversation, although Cleveland’s offensive struggles remain difficult to ignore. The Browns ranked 29th in total offence and 28th in scoring entering Week 7.
The team also has options beyond Watson, with two first-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft giving general manager Andrew Berry resources to pursue a younger quarterback.
Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has refused to get ahead of the situation, saying: “That’s way premature to talk about that.”
Watson’s immediate priority is to keep Cleveland winning. Another strong run could strengthen his case for a new deal, but the Browns’ draft capital and his limited alternatives could make negotiations complicated even if he maintains his current form.
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