There is a lack of top-end talent at the quarterback position this offseason. Whether it's in the NFL Draft, free agency, or the trade market, the Cleveland Browns don't have many options.
Malik Willis is the best option this offseason, as high upside is appealing to many teams across the NFL. But, for the Browns, landing Willis this offseason might not happen.
ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi projected that the Browns would pass on Willis this offseason for many reasons. But one of the main ones was a huge $46 million problem that makes adding an expensive QB tricky to justify.
Browns predicted to pass on Malik Willis for many reasons, including $46M problem
"... but between Deshaun Watson's $46 million salary, needs elsewhere, and Willis' slim resume, Cleveland might not have the appetite for Willis' salary demands," Oyefusi writes.
The Browns are looking to overhaul their entire offensive line, and to do so, they need a lot of money.
Their trade for Tytus Howard has shown as such already. They spent a fifth-round pick on Howard, and also have him signed to a new three-year, $63 million extension.
That's only one spot along the offensive line filled. The Browns need to add four more starters potentially this offseason.
More: Browns trade for offensive tackle Tytus Howard from Texans
When dealing with such an issue, the contract Willis is looking for, which could get close to $30 million total, wouldn't be very reasonable for the Browns to offer.
Watson is on the books for $46 million in 2026, and while they can move some money around, it doesn't take away from the fact that the Browns would be adding tens of millions of dollars onto their books in an uncertain quarterback.
If Willis were more of a known commodity, and a consistently good QB rather than someone who's not had much NFL experience, then the Browns might be more able to justify the price tag.
But, as things stand now, the Browns' decision to back out of the Willis sweepstakes wouldn't be a surprise at all this offseason.
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