Browns Owner Keeps Watson Door Open Beyond 2026 While Quarterback Struggles in Training Camp

Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has not ruled out extending Deshaun Watson beyond 2026, the final year of his five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract, despite the quarterback's difficult opening to training camp. Watson, sidelined since October 2024 while recovering from a twice-torn right Achilles tendon, threw multiple interceptions and missed throws during the team's first full-speed practice under new coach Todd Monken. The quarterback faces direct competition from second-year player Shedeur Sanders, who took the next turn with the starting offense.

Haslam's Conditional Optimism

In his Friday meeting with reporters, Haslam acknowledged that the Browns could explore keeping Watson in the franchise beyond the current contract framework. "There are all kinds of possibilities out there," Haslam stated when asked about a potential 2027 return. However, his comments came with clear conditions: Watson must win the starting job during camp and perform effectively when games begin. Monken retains authority over which quarterbacks will play in exhibition games and ultimately decide the starter for the regular season.

Haslam framed his openness strategically, noting that winning resolves multiple concerns—whether past off-field issues, injury histories, or performance questions. Watson, at 30 years old, theoretically possesses sufficient career runway to revive his franchise-quarterback standing. The owner's cautious tone reflected the realities of the $230 million commitment already made in 2022, when the Browns acquired Watson from Houston in what many viewed as a high-risk gamble.

Watson's Rough First Practice

Watson's performance during Wednesday's opening practice offered little immediate encouragement. Defensive back Denzel Ward intercepted a pass thrown on a designed rollout, while teammate Damarri Mathis picked off another attempt on an improvisation during a rush. Watson faced quick pressure on multiple early snaps, though Monken allowed plays to continue rather than stopping for corrections on day one. The first offensive drills under the new coaching system produced more turnovers than rhythm, though observers cautioned against overweighting a single practice session.

The quarterback's absence from competitive football since mid-2024 compounds the physical recovery challenge. Meanwhile, the Browns invested in defensive continuity by awarding contract extensions to cornerback Denzel Ward and safety Grant Delpit in the hours surrounding the opening practice. Both players, among the organization's longest-tenured defensive contributors, secured clarity on their futures after months of uncertainty following the mid-year trade of two-time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett in June.