Deshaun Watson's Lucrative NFL Contracts: An Overview
Initial Deal with Houston Texans
On September 2, 2020, Deshaun Watson signed a four-year, $156 million contract extension with the Houston Texans. The deal included a $27 million signing bonus, $110.7 million in guaranteed money, and a base salary of $15.5 million in 2020.
Trade to the Cleveland Browns
On March 18, 2022, the Cleveland Browns acquired Deshaun Watson from the Houston Texans in a trade that involved multiple draft picks. Watson's existing four-year contract became void, and he was scheduled to become a free agent at the end of the 2023 NFL season.
New Contract with the Browns
On March 25, 2022, Watson signed a five-year, $230 million contract with the Cleveland Browns upon being traded. The deal includes a $44.965 million signing bonus, $230 million in guaranteed money, and a base salary of $53 million in 2022.
Contract Structure
The five-year contract is fully guaranteed, meaning that Watson will receive the full $230 million regardless of whether he plays out the entire deal or not. The contract also includes annual roster bonuses that will vary from year to year.
Salary Details
Watson's base salary for 2022 is $53 million, which is the highest among all NFL players. He is also set to earn base salaries of $46 million in 2023, $54.5 million in 2024, $59 million in 2025, and $63.5 million in 2026.
Signing Bonus
The $44.965 million signing bonus is the highest ever given to an NFL player. The bonus is fully guaranteed and was paid to Watson upon signing the contract.
Guaranteed Money
The $230 million in guaranteed money is the highest ever guaranteed to an NFL player. The guaranteed money includes the signing bonus, base salary, and annual roster bonuses.
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