The Cleveland Browns may have found a potential avenue to void quarterback Deshaun Watson's contract guarantees following a new lawsuit filed against him.
According to a report by Browns Wire, a key provision in Watson's contract could allow the team to terminate the remainder of his deal without penalty.
The latest legal action against Watson has brought renewed attention to the terms of his contract with the Browns.
Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reportedly obtained a copy of the agreement, revealing a clause that may prove crucial in determining the quarterback's future with the team.
The provision in question requires Watson to disclose certain information to the club, including any criminal charges, indictments, or convictions.
It also covers conduct that could potentially lead to such charges. The critical factor now is whether Watson and his representatives disclosed this particular instance to the Browns when he signed his contract.
If it is determined that Watson failed to disclose relevant information as required by the contract, the Browns could potentially have grounds to void the remaining guarantees. This would effectively allow the team to terminate the contract without incurring financial penalties.
The specific language in the contract, as reported by Browns Wire, states:
Player hereby represents and warrants (except as otherwise disclosed to club in writing), as of the date hereof, that (1) Player has not been charged with, indicted for, convicted of or pled nolo contendre to any felony and/or misdemeanor involving fraud or moral turpitude, (ii) Player has not engaged in conduct which could subject him to a charge, indictment or conviction of any such offense, and (iii) no circumstances exist that would prevent Player's continuing availability to the Club for duration of this Contract.
The discovery of this contract provision comes at a time when the Browns are facing renewed scrutiny over their decision to acquire Watson. The quarterback's tenure with the team has been marred by controversy since his arrival, and this latest development adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
For the Browns, the possibility of voiding Watson's contract could provide an unexpected way out of a challenging situation. However, it remains to be seen whether the team will pursue this option or how it might impact their long-term plans at the quarterback position.
Watson, on the other hand, now faces additional uncertainty about his future in Cleveland. The outcome of this situation could have significant implications for his career and financial prospects in the NFL.
The Cleveland Browns may have grounds to void Deshaun Watson's contract guarantees due to a newly filed lawsuit against the quarterback. A key provision in Watson's contract requires him to disclose certain information, including potential legal issues.
If Watson failed to disclose this particular instance when signing his contract, the Browns could potentially terminate the deal without penalty. This development adds another layer of complexity to Watson's tumultuous tenure with the team and raises questions about his future in Cleveland.
