The Cleveland Browns appear poised to keep Deshaun Watson on their 2026 roster. That's not because of on-field momentum. It's because the financial math leaves them with virtually no alternative.

According to league sources, despite Watson’s extended Achilles recovery and an underwhelming stint in Cleveland, cutting him next year would be catastrophic for the salary cap .

A pre–June 1 release would trigger a nearly unprecedented $135 million dead-cap hit. Evan a post–June 1 designation would saddle the Browns with $53 million. Keeping Watson is still the most manageable path. That's despite his league-high projected $80.7 million cap hit. This reality effectively locks Watson into the roster as the Browns reassess the position heading into a pivotal offseason. Article Continues

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