Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson faces contract and roster challenges in 2026

The Cleveland Browns are confronting a difficult 2026 season as quarterback Deshaun Watson and rookie Shedeur Sanders vie for the starting role. Analysts warn that if Watson retains the job without significant improvement, the team could finish last in the AFC North and face another coaching change.

At the same time, the Browns' handling of Watson's five‑year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract is creating sizable salary‑cap issues. The team has added four void‑year extensions that push the contract out to 2030, resulting in a projected dead‑cap charge of $86.2 million in 2026, which could be split into roughly $35 million in 2027 and $53 million in 2028. General manager Andrew Berry has suggested the possibility of extending Watson if he performs modestly, potentially prolonging the financial burden. These cap complications join other upcoming dead‑cap obligations for players such as Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward, leaving the Browns with a precarious roster and financial outlook.