Why is Deshaun Watson's contract considered the worst in NFL history?

Deshaun Watson's contract with the Cleveland Browns is often cited as the worst in NFL history due to a combination of financial missteps, poor performance, and off-field controversies. In 2022, the Browns signed Watson to a five-year deal worth $230 million, fully guaranteed. This unprecedented move broke the norm in the NFL, where most contracts include performance incentives and partial guarantees. The Browns’ decision to fully guarantee Watson's contract was seen as a major gamble, especially considering the uncertain circumstances surrounding him at the time. Watson had not played the previous season due to legal issues and trade disputes, and his future was clouded by serious allegations of sexual misconduct from over two dozen women.

On the field, Watson’s performance has been far from what the Browns had hoped. He was once seen as one of the most promising quarterbacks in the league, but his time with Cleveland has been underwhelming. Watson’s debut in Week 13 of the 2022 season, following an 11-game suspension, was disappointing. The Browns went 3-3 with him under center, and he struggled to regain his previous form. In the six games he played, Watson failed to showcase the agility and playmaking ability that once made him a star with the Houston Texans. The Browns missed the playoffs and finished last in their division.

Watson’s second season in Cleveland was cut short by a shoulder injury, and even when he did play, his performances were below expectations. This season has been no different, with the Browns holding a 1-6 record when Watson has started. He has consistently ranked near the bottom in key quarterback metrics, including QBR, and has struggled to lead the team effectively. These performance issues have made the contract look even worse, as the Browns are paying top dollar for subpar results on the field.

The controversy surrounding Watson’s off-field behavior is perhaps the biggest reason his contract has been such a disaster. At the time of signing, he faced multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, which he eventually settled out of court. Although Watson was not criminally charged, the volume of accusations raised serious concerns. The Browns were criticized for offering such a lucrative contract to a player facing ongoing legal issues, with many seeing it as a decision that prioritized winning over ethics. This created a PR crisis for the team, leading to widespread backlash from fans and media alike. Even after Watson’s suspension ended, the criticism did not subside, and his poor performances only added to the frustration among Cleveland supporters.

Financially, the structure of Watson's contract has left the Browns in a difficult position. With $46 million per year guaranteed for the next two seasons, the team has little flexibility to make significant roster adjustments. Even if the Browns wanted to move on from Watson, the massive financial commitment makes it almost impossible. Releasing or trading him would result in a huge dead cap hit, and it is unlikely any team would be willing to take on his contract given his current play and the baggage that comes with him.

Ultimately, Watson’s contract is viewed as a cautionary tale for other NFL franchises. The combination of an unprecedented financial commitment, underwhelming on-field performance, and significant off-field issues has left the Browns in a difficult position. What was meant to be a bold move to acquire a star quarterback has turned into a disaster, making Watson’s contract arguably the worst in NFL history. The team is now burdened with a deal that limits their ability to build a competitive roster, and the road ahead looks uncertain.