Cleveland, Ohio – In the high-stakes world of the NFL, financial decisions often dictate team strategies. Contract guarantees are especially crucial when it comes to player signings. The recent buzz surrounding Joe Flacco’s contract with the Cleveland Browns initially indicated a one-year, $4 million base deal, but specifics on the guarantee were lacking. Insider information now reveals that Flacco’s full guarantee at signing amounts to $3 million.
Noteworthy figures in the quarterback landscape include Kenny Pickett with a fully guaranteed $2,623,350 contract, and Deshaun Watson commanding an impressive $46 million in full guarantees. When looking at the combined cash commitments for Cleveland quarterbacks in 2025, the total hits a substantial $51.623 million. Despite these substantial financial commitments, the Browns are not ruling out the possibility of adding another quarterback through the upcoming draft. With three quarterback slots to fill on the team’s active depth chart (with Watson likely being excluded), selecting a rookie quarterback could present a financially prudent option compared to signing a veteran player.
Consequently, it appears unlikely that the Browns will select a quarterback with the second overall pick in the upcoming draft. Other potential scenarios include picking a quarterback in the second round, trading back into the first round, or choosing a quarterback in a later round. The dynamic situation also leaves room for the potential trade of Flacco or Pickett should the team explore other options at the quarterback position post-draft. Additionally, considerations for addressing other team needs post-draft might prompt the Browns to offload either player if the quarterback room becomes overcrowded.
The prevailing challenge facing the Browns revolves around Deshaun Watson’s hefty contract, which poses a significant obstacle in managing the team’s quarterback situation effectively. Despite concerted efforts to navigate this financial hurdle, the lingering presence of Watson’s contract looms large, complicating the team’s ability to optimize its quarterback lineup. As the Browns work on reshaping their roster and tackling financial constraints, fans are left contemplating the team’s direction amidst the complexities of managing player contracts and team dynamics.