The adjustment, which is technically an extension by adding a new year to the existing contract but no new money, is intended to help the Browns field a competitive roster for 2025 and beyond. Watson has $46 million due to him over the next two years to complete the $230 million contract signed in 2022.

The Cleveland Browns have again restructured quarterback Deshaun Watson's massive contract to create salary-cap space and give them future flexibility, a person familiar with the move told The Associated Press on Friday.

Backup quarterbacks Jameis Winston and Dorian Thompson-Robinson have started games for the Browns in 2024 since Watson's Achilles injury. The team is likely to pursue a veteran QB in free agency and/or draft a quarterback in 2025 to potentially compete with Watson for the starting job next year.