As the 2024 NFL season looms, the anticipation builds for those eager to see their teams in action. Alongside the excitement, however, comes a dose of harsh reality: Some players, despite their hefty contracts, may not live up to the financial expectations set upon them. Whether it be due to declining performance, injury or a simple overestimation of their value, the following names are pocketing large sums without equivalent results on the field.
Below, we'll spotlight those who, despite their salaries, could leave organizations questioning both the short- and long-term return on their investment. Worst Investment: Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns (total contract value: five years, $230 million) The 10th-highest paid player in football, Deshaun Watson's tenure in Cleveland has failed to live up to expectations. With a deal that totals $46 million annually, the 28-year-old is being compensated as one of the top signal-callers in football.
However, Watson has failed to produce at any level beyond sub-standard since his arrival in Cleveland, and he could enter the fall with a short leash considering the depth chart of talent behind him should things go even further south. In two seasons with the Browns, the three-time Pro Bowler has thrown for 14 touchdown passes compared to nine interceptions. Runner-up: Daniel Jones, New York Giants (total contract value: four years, $160 million) Daniel Jones signed a lucrative extension with the New York Giants in March 2023, but questions .