Deshaun Watson, born Derrick Deshaun Watson on September 14, 1995, in Gainesville, Georgia, is one of the most talked-about figures in professional football today. Currently 29 years old, Watson has enjoyed a rollercoaster career filled with outstanding performances, record-breaking contracts, and high-profile controversies. From his early success at Clemson University to his tumultuous NFL journey, Watson’s story is a mix of athletic greatness and off-the-field headlines.
Early Life and College Stardom
Watson grew up in Gainesville, Georgia, where he excelled as the starting quarterback for Gainesville High School under coach Bruce Miller. Setting multiple state records — including 218 total touchdowns and over 17,000 total yards — Watson quickly emerged as a standout prospect. Recognized as a Junior All-American and a Top 100 national recruit, he committed to Clemson University in 2012.
At Clemson, Watson’s talent was undeniable. In 2016, he led the Tigers to the College Football Playoff National Championship, defeating Alabama and claiming offensive MVP honors. Over his college career, he collected numerous awards, including the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, Davey O’Brien Award (twice), and the Manning Award. Opting to forgo his senior season, Watson declared for the 2017 NFL Draft after completing his communications degree in just three years.
NFL Career and Record-Setting Contracts
Selected 12th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans, Watson signed an initial four-year deal worth $13.84 million, including an $8.21 million signing bonus. His rookie season was promising but cut short by a torn ACL. Nonetheless, he set several rookie records, including tying for most touchdown passes in a game (5) by a first-year quarterback.
By 2020, Watson was regarded as one of the NFL’s premier quarterbacks, prompting the Texans to offer him a four-year, $156 million extension, which came with a $27 million signing bonus and an average annual salary of $39 million. However, following a tumultuous 2020 season and mounting off-field issues, Watson requested a trade.
In March 2022, Watson was traded to the Cleveland Browns, signing a historic five-year, fully guaranteed $230 million contract — the most guaranteed money in NFL history at that time. The contract included a $45 million signing bonus and an average annual salary of $46 million. Despite the unprecedented deal, Watson’s performance with the Browns has been underwhelming. Over his first two seasons, he played just 12 games due to suspension, injury, and inconsistent form. By the end of the 2023 season, a shoulder injury sidelined him, yet the Browns still owe him $138 million under the fully guaranteed contract.
Net Worth and Career Earnings
As of 2025, Deshaun Watson’s estimated net worth is approximately $60 million. His career earnings have been driven largely by NFL contracts, including nearly $92 million in cash earned during his first two seasons with the Browns alone — equating to an eye-watering $7.7 million per game.
Endorsements were once a lucrative part of his financial profile, with deals from major brands like Nike and Beats by Dre. However, both brands severed ties with Watson amid sexual misconduct allegations in 2021, impacting his endorsement income.
Controversies and Legal Troubles
Watson’s career has been overshadowed by significant legal issues. In March 2021, a civil lawsuit accused him of sexual misconduct during a massage session. More than 20 additional civil cases followed, alleging inappropriate behavior from Watson. Although a grand jury declined to indict him on criminal charges in March 2022, over 20 civil suits were filed, and most were eventually settled.
The fallout extended to Watson’s professional relationships. Alongside losing endorsement deals, he faced heavy public and media scrutiny. Despite the controversy, the Browns proceeded with their record-setting contract, sparking widespread debate within the NFL community.
Records and On-Field Achievements
Statistically, Watson has cemented himself as one of the NFL’s most efficient quarterbacks. He currently holds the record for the highest career completion percentage in NFL history (67.8%). Additionally, he ranks #2 in all-time career passing yards per game and has set records such as:
- Most completions with a perfect passer rating (28)
- Most passing touchdowns by a rookie in a 7-game span (19)
- Most consecutive games with a touchdown pass (20) for the Texans franchise
Watson’s ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground has earned him multiple Pro Bowl selections and recognition on the NFL Top 100 Players list.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Watson is the son of Don Richardson and Deann Watson and comes from humble beginnings. In fact, his family once benefitted from a home donation via NFL player Warrick Dunn’s charity and Habitat for Humanity. Deshaun’s Christian faith has played a key role in his life, guiding pivotal decisions like committing to Clemson.
In 2017, during his rookie season, Watson made headlines for donating his first NFL game check — worth $27,000 — to three cafeteria workers at NRG Stadium affected by Hurricane Harvey.
The Road Ahead
As Watson enters the 2025 season, questions loom regarding his durability and ability to live up to the Browns’ significant financial investment. After sitting out the remainder of the 2023 season due to a shoulder injury, his return will be pivotal for both his career trajectory and Cleveland’s playoff aspirations.
Regardless of how his career unfolds from here, Deshaun Watson’s name will remain etched in NFL history, whether for his groundbreaking achievements or the controversies that continue to define his public image.
