The enter the 2026 offseason staring down a historic financial crisis. With Deshaun Watsons salary cap hit currently sitting at a ridiculous $80.7-million, GM Andrew Berry is expected to pull his familiar lever: restructuring Watsons deal once again to stay compliant. While this provides immediate breathing room, it punts a ma sive "dead cap" bill into the late 2020s. To survive this cycle, Cleveland must prioritize youth and value over loyalty. 31 players on Dale Berra Jersey the 2025 squad have expiring contracts. Nine of them started 10 or more games this season. Here are the five names the Browns should not re-sign: 1. David Njoku (TE): Being a fan favorite and a positive locker-room presence aren't enough to save "Chief." After a second year of dipping production, Njokus $24.3-million cap charge is an anchor. The Browns can void it by releasing the tight end. With rookie sensation Harold Fannin Jr. ready to lead, the torch has officially been pa sed. 2. Ethan Pocic (C): Coming off season-ending surgery, the 30-year-old is an expensive risk. The younger (and cheaper) Luke Wypler is waiting in the wings to take over at center. MORE: 3. Jack Conklin (OT): Durability remains a fatal flaw. Conklin is too expensive to occupy a roster spot given his inability to stay on the field. Time for both parties to get a fresh start. 4. Jerome Ford (RB): When the organization drafted both Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson in 2025, the writing was on the wall for Ford. The team will turn to youth and le s pricey third-stringers in the backfield. 5. Jamari Thrash (WR): Unfortunately, Thrash has become another Andrew Berry wide receiver bust. Its time to stop chasing potential and find reliable production elsewhere. Po sibly a practice squad candidate. More Browns news: Rich Gossage Jersey