The Cleveland Browns are walking a financial tightrope this offseason — but a quiet clause in Deshaun Watson’s deal may have given them much-needed relief. As reported by NBC Sports, the Browns’ purchase of a contract insurance policy could recoup over $55 million in cash and cap following Watson’s season-ending injury in 2024. The unexpected boost has reshaped Cleveland’s plans — and opened a lane for Kenny Pickett to stake his claim.

The Browns recently acquired Kenny Pickett in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, sending quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson and a 2025 fifth-round pick to Philadelphia in exchange. Pickett’s tenure with the Steelers was turbulent, but it offered him critical exposure to the demands of professional football—experience he’s now aiming to channel into a fresh start in Cleveland. A former first-round pick, he showed flashes of promise but never fully locked in as the Steelers’ long-term answer.

Far from seeing this as a backup role, the 25-year-old approached the challenge head-on. “I’m not going there to hang out,” Pickett told Steelers Depot, demanding his intent to compete for the starting spot from day one declaring his full intention to battle for the QB1 role. It’s not just talk — Cleveland is rethinking everything, including the quarterback room. 

Pickett’s stat line—13 touchdowns to 13 interceptions over two seasons—left fans and analysts divided. Though many expected him to be a depth piece, one team insider told NFL Network, “He’s not here to be a placeholder—he’s got something to prove, and it shows every day.” The Browns also hold the No. 2 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft — and whether they select a quarterback or build around defense, Pickett’s presence gives head coach Kevin Stefanski another option.

Deshaun Watson’s $55M Boost: Can Pickett leverage Cleveland’s Quarterback chaos?

The Browns’ quarterback room has long been a question mark — Watson remains under contract, but his return timeline remains murky. Although the Browns gave Deshaun Watson a massive five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed deal in 2022, the investment hasn’t justified the hefty contract. The team’s 2024 season ended with a disappointing 3–12 record, hampered by offensive instability and his recurring injuries. Despite his underperformance, the Browns are obligated to meet the terms of this deal, leading to the continuation of his high payout regardless of on-field results.

With $55 million in potential insurance recovery now clearing up their cap situation, the Browns are expected to be aggressive in solidifying their offense — which could mean real competition between Pickett, Watson (if healthy), and even a possible rookie QB from the draft. Amid the growing competition, Pickett’s low-cost deal now appears to be a strategic move, positioning him as a potential QB contender for the Browns.

So far, Stefanski and GM Andrew Berry haven’t committed to a starter. And while Watson is still under contract, his health remains a question mark. Pickett, on the other hand, is healthy, affordable, and hungry. His fire to “earn everything” might be exactly what Cleveland needs to reignite a culture of accountability. Is Pickett the long-term answer under center for Cleveland, or just a spark in the short term?