Browns Have Clear Deshaun Watson Plan for 2027

Cleveland will release the quarterback in 2027 to avoid a massive $200 million salary guarantee.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns have a clear plan in place for dealing with quarterback Deshaun Watson's contract. According to NFL agent Joel Curry, the Browns will release Watson in March 2027 with a post-June 1 designation, which will spread out the cap hit over 2027 and 2028 and save the team a significant amount of money. Watson's $200 million salary guarantee for 2029 will not vest, allowing the Browns to move on from the embattled quarterback after three seasons.

Why it matters

The Browns' handling of the Watson situation has been closely watched, as his massive contract and off-field issues have complicated the team's quarterback situation. This plan provides a clear path for the Browns to eventually move on from Watson while minimizing the financial impact.

The details

In December 2024, the Browns added extra "dummy" years to Watson's contract, which will help them spread out the cap hits when they eventually release him. By designating the release as post-June 1, the Browns will only be on the hook for $34.6 million in 2027 and $51.5 million in 2028, rather than the full $86 million in 2027. This allows them to more easily move on from Watson and his $200 million salary guarantee in 2029.

  • In December 2024, the Browns added extra "dummy" years to Watson's contract.
  • The Browns will release Watson in March 2027 with a post-June 1 designation.

The players

Deshaun Watson

The Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback who signed a $230 million, fully guaranteed contract in 2022.

Joel Curry

An NFL agent who revealed the Browns' plan for dealing with Watson's contract.

Dillon Gabriel

A third-round pick by the Browns in the 2025 NFL Draft who is competing for the starting quarterback job.

Shedeur Sanders

A fifth-round pick by the Browns in the 2025 NFL Draft who is competing for the starting quarterback job.

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What they’re saying

“Cleveland's plans with Watson have been etched in stone ever since a December 2024 contract maneuver.”

— Joel Curry, NFL Agent (CBS Sports)

“Watson will be released in March 2027 with a post-June 1 designation before the 2029 salary guarantee vests.”

— Joel Curry, NFL Agent (CBS Sports)

What’s next

The Browns will have to decide between Dillon Gabriel, Shedeur Sanders, or potentially another quarterback option to be their starter in 2026 as they prepare to move on from Deshaun Watson the following year.

The takeaway

The Browns' plan to release Deshaun Watson in 2027 provides a clear path forward for the team to move on from the quarterback's massive contract and off-field issues, while minimizing the financial impact. This allows the Browns to focus on developing their younger quarterback options and transitioning to a new era at the position.