Watson signed a four-year, $177.5 million contract extension before the start of the 2020 NFL season, extending his deal until at least 2025. In 2022, the extension will become effective.
After being accused of sexual assault and misbehavior, he missed the whole 2021 season, prompting the hefty deal, which makes him one of the best paid players in the NFL.
Although a grand jury declined to prosecute him on the claims the week before, he is still facing 22 civil lawsuits and the league may still penalize him. The claims against Watson have been refuted.
Watson’s four-year, $136 million contract was expected to be acquired by the next team if he was dealt. Watson is expected to be suspended by the league awaiting the outcome of its inquiry, which would nullify the guarantees in his contract.
According to ESPN’s David Newton, the Panthers were hesitant to guarantee Watson’s third and fourth years of his contract, causing the quarterback to pull them out of the race for his services.
Before the surprise news of the Browns trade broke on Friday afternoon, the Falcons and Saints were considered the frontrunners to get Watson.
How much is Deshaun Watson Making this year?
Although with a huge 5 years contract of $230 million, Deshaun Watson’s base salary is $1 million in 2022.
He will receive a $45 million signing bonus.
