Deshaun Watson’s second Achilles tendon tear has put the Browns in a difficult financial situation, as it may allow them to avoid paying him the remaining $92 million under his fully-guaranteed five-year contract. The team’s announcement that Watson rolled his ankle in Miami could be crucial in determining whether he was engaging in activities prohibited by his contract.
According to the terms of his deal, guarantees are void if Watson is injured as a result of certain activities such as skydiving or motorcycle racing. However, without concrete evidence, it’s unclear whether these claims will hold up in court.
The Browns’ decision to play hardball with Watson and explore every possible strategy for avoiding $92 million in payments has raised questions about their intentions. Chief Strategy Officer Paul DePodesta is likely to be involved in this process, as the team would need to strategize a path toward reducing or eliminating the obligation.
A legal fight is inevitable if the Browns try to cut Watson off, but a settlement with reduced guarantees and/or salary could be reached. Watson would then have to decide whether to take an all-or-nothing risk in a grievance or accept less than he’s owed.
The team’s statement that Watson rolled his ankle in Miami may hint at their intentions, as they should be exploring options to minimize the financial impact of this worst contract in NFL history.
Source: https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/deshaun-watsons-new-achilles-injury-potentially-jeopardizes-92-million