Cleveland Browns Eye Deshaun Watson Trade With Baker Mayfield Still Under Contract

The Deshaun Watson sweepstakes expanded to include a team that already has an established starting quarterback. The Cleveland Browns are reportedly meeting with Watson as he seeks a trade from the Houston Texans.

Watson is set to meet Cleveland on Tuesday, following talks with the Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints, according to multiple reports. Teams have begun to actively pursue the signal-caller after learning that he will not face criminal charges for allegations of sexual assault.

There are 22 pending civil suits against Watson. The quarterback could be suspended for part of the 2022 season after sitting out 2021 pending the investigation.

Although Watson is still under contract with Houston, the 26-year-old has a say in his destination because of a no-trade clause that allows him to veto any deal made by the Texans. In the event that the Browns trade for Watson, it would almost certainly mean Cleveland plans to send Baker Mayfield elsewhere.

Mayfield will make $18.9 million in 2022 in what is the final year of his contract. The former No. 1 overall pick was hampered by an injury to his non-throwing shoulder in 2021. In 14 games, Mayfield threw for a career-low 3,070 yards with 17 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

Prior to reports of Cleveland’s interest in Watson, there had been rumors that the Browns might look to replace Mayfield this offseason. Coming off an 8-9 record last season. Cleveland might’ve made the playoffs with average quarterback play.

Mayfield has publicly denied reports that there is friction between himself and head coach Kevin Stefanski.

Mayfield had his best season in 2020, throwing for 26 touchdowns, eight interceptions and a 95.9 passer rating. The Browns made the divisional playoffs for the first time in 26 years.

The Browns might face a higher price tag for Watson than the Panthers or Saints because Cleveland plays in the AFC. According to ESPN’s Adan Schefter, the Texans have declined the Indianapolis Colts’ request to meet with Watson because Houston won’t trade him within the AFC South.

Watson didn’t play in the 2021 season amid his trade request and the allegations against him. He made his third straight Pro Bowl in 2020 with a league-high 4,823 passing yards and a career-best 112.4 passer rating. Watson has four years and $156 million left on his contract.