The Cleveland Browns have announced disciplinary actions against quarterback Deshaun Watson, stemming from allegations of sexual misconduct by multiple women. Watson has agreed to an 11-game unpaid suspension, accompanied by a $5 million fine and a requirement to undergo professional evaluation and treatment as part of a settlement reached with the NFL.
The league had initially pursued a one-year ban for Watson, citing violations of its personal conduct policy. Allegations surfaced against Watson, accusing him of engaging in inappropriate behavior and coercion during massage therapy sessions while he was with the Houston Texans.
Following his trade to the Cleveland Browns in March, Watson signed a lucrative $230 million contract, with $1.035 million allocated for his first season. Consequently, the suspension will result in a salary loss of $632,500 for Watson.
As per the settlement terms, Watson will be eligible to return to action for the Browns’ game in Houston on December 4th. Despite the suspension, he will be allowed to participate in team activities during the week but will not be permitted on the sideline during games.
In response to the settlement, Watson expressed his commitment to moving forward with his career and personal life. While maintaining his innocence, he emphasized the importance of focusing on the future and continuing his professional endeavors.
The resolution of the case comes after months of speculation and preempts a ruling by former New Jersey attorney general Peter C. Harvey, who was appointed by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to oversee the appeal process.
As part of the agreement between the NFL and the NFL Players Association, Watson will undergo evaluation by behavioral experts and comply with any recommended treatment program.
Watson issued an apology before the Browns’ preseason opener, expressing regret for the impact of the allegations. He reiterated his stance of innocence while acknowledging the need to move forward with his life and career.
In addition to the financial penalties imposed on Watson, the NFL and the Browns will collectively contribute $2 million to a fund supporting nonprofit organizations focused on promoting healthy relationships, educating young people, and preventing sexual misconduct and assault.
Until the suspension takes effect on August 30th, Watson will be allowed to participate in team practices. However, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Watson will not feature in any preseason games. He will be prohibited from accessing the team facility until October 10th, approximately halfway through the suspension period. Watson will be eligible to resume practicing on November 18th, with reinstatement to follow two weeks later.
Attorney Tony Buzbee, representing the women who filed lawsuits against Watson, criticized the NFL’s handling of the case and the terms of the settlement, suggesting that the league’s actions undermine the experiences of victims.
Despite the controversy surrounding Watson’s suspension, Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam reiterated their support for him. They expressed confidence in Watson’s ability to learn and grow from the experience, emphasizing their commitment to his personal and professional development.
The suspension raises questions about the Browns’ quarterback situation, with veteran Jacoby Brissett expected to assume starting duties in Watson’s absence. The team’s aspirations of contending in the AFC North could be impacted by Watson’s prolonged absence from the field.
For Watson, the suspension represents a setback in his career and prolongs his period of inactivity. Once regarded as one of the NFL’s premier quarterbacks, he sat out the previous season amid trade demands and before the emergence of the sexual misconduct allegations.
Overall, the settlement brings closure to a contentious situation but leaves lingering uncertainties about Watson’s future with the Browns and the broader implications for the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
