What's Happening?
The Cleveland Browns are planning to keep quarterback Deshaun Watson on their roster for the 2026 NFL season, despite his absence from play this year. The team has opened Watson's practice window to integrate
him back into football activities. The Browns are also evaluating their rookie quarterbacks, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, as they prepare for the 2026 NFL draft. Financial considerations play a significant role in the decision to retain Watson, as releasing him would result in substantial salary cap charges.
Why It's Important?
Retaining Deshaun Watson is a strategic decision for the Browns, balancing financial implications and team dynamics. Watson's presence provides veteran leadership for the rookie quarterbacks, which is valuable for their development. The decision also reflects the Browns' long-term planning, as they aim to assess their quarterback options ahead of the draft. The financial aspect is crucial, as releasing Watson would incur record-breaking dead cap charges, impacting the team's salary cap management.
What's Next?
The Browns will continue to evaluate their quarterback situation throughout the remainder of the season. The focus will be on giving Sanders and Gabriel as much playing time as possible to assess their potential. The team will also monitor Watson's integration into practice and his impact on the quarterback room. The upcoming NFL draft will be a pivotal moment for the Browns, as they hold two first-round picks and will need to make strategic decisions regarding their roster.
