BREAKING: Hurricanes’ QB Confirmed to Take Job of $230 Million NFL Role
Miami Hurricanes quarterback and Heisman hopeful Cam Ward has been performing exceptionally well through the first six games of the season. In stark contrast, Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has struggled significantly, with Cleveland sitting at 1-5 this year. Watson ranks 31st in the NFL, holding a QBR of 21.7 and has yet to surpass 200 passing yards in any game. While this paints a bleak picture, a closer look reveals that the situation for the Browns is even more dire.
Watson is currently in the third year of a five-year contract valued at $230 million, which is fully guaranteed. This means Cleveland is obligated to pay him the remainder of the deal regardless of the situation, significantly restricting the team’s options for replacing him. The only viable option for Cleveland is to acquire a rookie quarterback. While a rookie will still command a significant salary, the team can manage these costs more effectively compared to the escalating contracts of established quarterbacks across the league, which are expected to keep rising each year.
On October 14, Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department suggested a possible solution to the Browns’ quarterback dilemma while also projecting where Cam Ward might end up in the upcoming draft on April 24. They noted, “There are very few good ways forward for the Browns regarding Deshaun Watson’s contract.” One option could be making Watson the highest-paid backup quarterback in NFL history or releasing him with a post-June 1 designation next season. Regardless, the Browns will need a starting quarterback on a rookie contract. Selecting one of the top quarterbacks in the draft would enable them to make such a decision, and Ward has a lot to offer. Currently, he leads the FBS in major categories with 2,219 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and a passer efficiency rating of 182.4. The Hurricanes are 6-0 and ranked 6th in the nation. If the draft were held today, the Browns would hold the No. 2 pick in the first round, just behind the New England Patriots.
Ward is currently leading the FBS in several key statistics this season, including 2,219 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and a passer efficiency rating of 182.4, according to Football Reference. The Hurricanes are undefeated at 6-0 and ranked 6th overall in the nation. If the draft were to occur today, the Browns would have the No. 2 pick in the first round, following only the New England Patriots.