Deshaun Watson’s Achilles Injury: Is the Browns' $92 Million Gamble About to Backfire?
2025-01-11
Author: Chun
Deshaun Watson's Injury and Its Financial Implications
In a troublesome turn of events, Deshaun Watson, the beleaguered quarterback of the Cleveland Browns, has suffered a second tear of his Achilles tendon, potentially putting at risk the staggering $92 million still owed to him under his lucrative, fully-guaranteed five-year contract.
Contract Clauses and Injury Risks
The crux of the matter lies in the specific clauses of Watson’s deal, which explicitly outline that his guaranteed salaries of $46 million for both 2025 and 2026 could be voided if he incurred injuries while engaging in prohibited activities. These activities include, but are not limited to, extreme sports like skydiving and hang gliding, racing in any form, motorcycling, and even participating in traditional sports like basketball.
Investigation and Potential Outcomes
Recently, the Browns stated that Watson rolled his ankle while in Miami, but if investigators find that he rolled the ankle while partaking in any of the aforementioned forbidden activities, this could provide the team a legitimate loophole to escape from their financial obligation. With images circulating on social media showing Watson not wearing a walking boot—a key rehabilitation tool—there's growing concern about his adherence to the team’s rehab protocols. If he swapped the boot for casual footwear and thus aggravated his condition, the Browns might have another avenue to validate voiding his guarantees.
Legal Battles and Financial Ramifications
The question looming over the franchise is whether they’re willing to engage in a legal battle with Watson over this situation. The franchise has already faced significant backlash regarding the monumental contract that many analysts are dubbing the worst in NFL history. If the Browns decide to move forward with their investigation and find grounds for contesting Watson’s guarantees, they may trigger negotiations that could lead to a settlement—either reducing his guaranteed amounts or adjusting his overall salary.
Implications for the Future
The ramifications of such a decision are immense, as they risk igniting a legal fight that could span months, if not longer. Watson would find himself in a position to either fight for what he believes he is owed or settle for a lesser amount, weighing the risks of a lengthy grievance process against immediate financial relief.
Conclusion
As the situation unfolds, the Browns' clear communication about Watson's injury location hints they might be strategizing behind the scenes. With their financial future and reputation on the line, it is imperative for the franchise to meticulously explore every possible avenue to free themselves from this massive monetary commitment. Only time will tell how this high-stakes drama will play out and whether it will signify a new chapter—or the tragic ending—of an already tumultuous partnership.