“How Deshaun Watson’s Controversial Insurance Policy Could Shift the Future of the Browns”

The Cleveland Browns find themselves knee-deep in a storm of their own making as they finally reckon with what many have deemed the catastrophic contract signed with quarterback Deshaun Watson. What was once hailed as a bold move to secure a franchise quarterback has now turned into a source of significant disappointment and regret. However, amidst this chaos, there is a glimmer of hope—a silver lining that could soften the blow. A meticulous examination of the contract reveals an intriguing insurance addendum that allows the Browns potential recovery of a staggering $58.176 million. This provision kicks in if Watson, who suffered a torn Achilles during the 2024 season, is unable to fulfill his contractual obligations due to injury. With so much on the line, the insurance clause could serve not only as a financial lifeline but as a beacon of hope that might ease the salary cap strain from Watson’s mammoth $230 million deal. But before the Browns start celebrating, they’ll need to navigate the murky waters of insurance claims, where companies are known for resisting payout. With every dollar important, will this insurance safeguard deliver any much-needed relief? Only time will tell. LEARN MORE.

Watson suffered a torn Achilles in Week 7 of the 2024 season. If the insurance is based on the portion of the season Watson played, they’d presumably get all of the .691 million from the 2024 signing bonus (which was more than million), less than half of his .21 million 2024 base salary, and (if as expected he doesn’t play in 2025) .274 million for 2025.The contract, a copy of which PFT has obtained, contains an insurance addendum that allows the Browns to purchase coverage “in the event player is unable to perform the services required by his NFL Player Contract due to an NFL football-related or non-football related injury or death resulting therefrom.”It’s more than million of the 0 million albatross contract. Which will reduce the salary-cap pain. Given that 5 million of the 0 million deal has yet to hit the cap, that’ll make a huge difference for the Browns in the coming years.For an injury occurring between the start of the 2024 offseason program and the start of the 2025 offseason program, the contract allows for .176 million to be recovered by the Browns.The formula is as follows: .691 million in 2024 signing bonus; .21 million in 2024 base salary; and .274 million of million in 2025 base salary.

The Browns have finally admitted that the Deshaun Watson contract was a disaster. Within the perpetual storm cloud is a silver lining, however.If, that is, they actually collect on the policy. Insurance companies love taking money in. They hate paying money out. And with more than million on the line, the insurance company’s lawyers will be scouring the policy for any and all exceptions or exclusions that would justify a denial.