The Cleveland Browns are planning for quarterback Deshaun Watson to return for the 2026 NFL season, according to league sources. Despite Watson’s unlikelihood of playing this season, the team has opened his practice window to facilitate his training and ensure he remains engaged with football activities ahead of next spring.
This strategy aligns with the Browns’ objective to evaluate their rookie quarterbacks, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel. Sanders is set to start his third game this Sunday against the Tennessee Titans, while Gabriel has already seen significant playtime throughout the first half of the season. The team aims to maximize their experience in anticipation of the upcoming NFL draft, where they are positioned to hold two first-round picks.
Financial Considerations Influence Watson’s Future
The decision to retain Watson next season is heavily influenced by financial factors. Releasing him before June 1 would result in a dead salary cap charge of approximately $135 million. Should the Browns designate him as a post-June 1 cap casualty, this figure would still reach $53 million. For context, the current record for dead cap money is held by the Denver Broncos, who incurred an $85 million charge when moving on from quarterback Russell Wilson.
Watson’s salary cap charge for the 2026 season is projected to be $81.7 million, which would mark the highest figure in NFL history. These financial implications have led the Browns to consider the impact of retaining Watson, rather than incurring significant penalties by parting ways with him.
Veteran Presence Benefits Rookie Quarterbacks
The Browns also recognize the value Watson brings to their quarterback room beyond financial considerations. His veteran presence is viewed as a substantial asset for the development of their rookie players. This belief has motivated the team to involve him in practice last week and to prepare for his eventual return to the roster.
As the season progresses, the Browns remain focused on evaluating their current roster while keeping an eye on the future. The combination of financial realities and the potential for Watson’s mentorship could shape the direction of the team in the coming years. With the 2026 draft on the horizon, the Browns are committed to making informed decisions about their quarterback situation.
