His choice is finally made. While he seemed to be heading for the Saints or the Falcons, DeShaun Watson took everyone on the wrong foot by finally choosing Cleveland, according to Ian Rapoport for NFL Network.
As compensation, the Texans will receive the Browns’ 2022 first-round draft pick, as well as their 2023 first- and third-round picks, and their 2024 first- and fourth-round picks. As for Cleveland, they also receive a pick from the fifth round in 2024. The quarterback is not left out, since Cleveland took out the checkbook to lure him to Ohio. At stake, a 5-year contract and 230 million dollars, fully guaranteed. An NFL record. Tom Pelissero for NFL Network says he will receive a signing bonus of $45 million, along with a reduced salary of $1 million for 2022, to limit the impact of a possible suspension.
Drafted 12th in 2017, Watson had a brilliant start to his career before becoming embroiled in a sordid alleged sexual assault case last year. In 4 seasons, one of which was cut short due to injury, he threw for more than 14,000 yards, 104 touchdowns, 36 interceptions and participated in 3 Pro Bowls.
Deshaun Watson will be the new QB of the Cleveland Browns. A real thing. Tea #Browns will now trade Baker Mayfield.
—Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 18, 2022
More details: Deshaun Watson gets a $45 million signing bonus. His base salary this season is $1 million, so any suspension — if there is one — would cost him juts $55,555 per game lost. https://t.co/6gDhRXksBq
—Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 18, 2022
