According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Cleveland Browns have signed Kareem Hunt to a one-year deal worth up to $4 million. The contract is reportedly incentive-laden, with Hunt able to earn the full $4 million if he reaches certain benchmarks.
The deal is a significant pay cut for Hunt, who made $6 million in each of the past two seasons. However, it gives him a chance to prove himself in a new contract year and potentially earn a bigger payday next offseason.
The Browns needed another running back after losing Nick Chubb to a season-ending knee injury on Monday night. Hunt, who is a former Pro Bowler, is expected to split carries with D’Ernest Johnson and Jerome Ford.
Here are some of the key details of Hunt’s contract with the Browns:
- Base salary: $1 million
- Signing bonus: $1 million
- Per-game roster bonus: $100,000
- Performance bonuses: Up to $2 million in performance bonuses
The performance bonuses are reportedly based on Hunt’s rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns.
Hunt is a talented running back who has rushed for over 1,000 yards in two of his four NFL seasons. He is also a good receiver out of the backfield.
An official reunion: Former Browns’ RB Kareem Hunt is re-signing a one-year deal with Cleveland worth up to $4 million, per source. Hunt now will try to help fill the void with Nick Chubb’s season-ending knee injury.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 20, 2023
However, Hunt has also had some off-field issues. He was released by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2018 after video surfaced of him kicking a woman. The Browns signed Hunt in 2019, but he was suspended for the first eight games of the season.
Hunt has stayed out of trouble since his suspension, and he has been a productive player for the Browns. He rushed for 468 yards and three touchdowns in 17 games last season.
The Browns are hoping that Hunt can stay healthy and productive this season. He could be a key player in the Browns’ offense, especially with Chubb out for the year.
Analysis
Hunt’s contract is a good value for both sides. The Browns are getting a talented running back for a relatively low price. Hunt is getting a chance to prove himself and earn a bigger payday next offseason.
The performance bonuses in Hunt’s contract are interesting. They motivate Hunt to be productive, but they also give the Browns some protection in case he gets injured or has off-field issues.
Overall, Hunt’s contract is a fair deal for both sides. It gives the Browns a chance to compete for a playoff spot this season, and it gives Hunt a chance to set himself up for a big payday next offseason.
Read More:>Andy Reid Reacts To Travis Kelce’s Two Penalties vs. Jaguars