Before the start of the 2020 NFL season, Watson inked a four-year, $177.5 million extension to keep him under contract through at least 2025. That extension would officially start in 2022.
The massive extension, which makes him one of the highest paid players in the NFL, comes after he missed the entire 2021 season after he was accused of sexual assault and misconduct. A grand jury decided the previous week not to indict him on the allegations, but he still faces 22 civil lawsuits, and he could still be suspended by the league. Watson has denied the allegations.
MORE: Deshaun Watson legal situation, explained
Watson’s contract secures his status as the Browns’ quarterback for at least the next five years. Here’s how much he’s set to make.
Deshaun Watson contract details
Watson’s new deal with the Browns will be the most guaranteed money at signing of any player in NFL history.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Watson will receive $230 million over five years, all of which is guaranteed.
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The new contract will keep him in Cleveland for the next five years.
Aaron Rodgers had previously set the record for the most guaranteed money in NFL history, when he agreed to a three-year, $150.3 million to stay with the Packers this offseason.
There is an important note related to Watson’s new deal and a possible suspension from the NFL following Watson’s legal troubles.
Despite not facing charges, Watson can still be suspended for violating the NFL’s player conduct policy. Watson and the Browns appear to be playing contract gymnastics with his deal in 2022 to avoid a larger financial penalty.
This section will be updated as more details are released.
NFL’s highest-paid quarterbacks
Watson was already one of the league’s top-five highest paid quarterbacks. He’s now moving up even higher on the list.
Given the average annual value of his contract, he is now surpassed only by Rodgers.
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Before Rodgers’ deal, Josh Allen held the record for the most guaranteed money in a single contract with $150 million guaranteed.
