NFL Looking to Suspend Browns QB Watson for at Least One Year
The wild, disturbing and bizarre Deshaun Watson case could take a turn that will set a precedent that will not only shake up the NFL landscape but the entire sports…
BEREA, OH – JUNE 01: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns throws a pass during the Cleveland Browns offseason workout at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on June 1, 2022 in Berea, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
The wild, disturbing and bizarre Deshaun Watson case could take a turn that will set a precedent that will not only shake up the NFL landscape but the entire sports world with regards to the handling of sexual abuse/assault cases.
Watson, who has made headlines for all the wrong reasons for nearly two years regarding allegations of sexual misconduct during massages with 24 noted women, could face discipline from the National Football League that lasts "no shorter than one year," according to multiple reports.
The NFL and the NFL Players Association are scheduled to hold a hearing on Tuesday regarding discipline of Watson. The NFL is leaning toward the indefinite suspension of the one time star quarterback.
According to Pro Football Talk, " By pushing for an indefinite suspension, the league would be protected against the possibility that more women will sue Watson between now and the middle of March 2023, when all relevant two-year statutes of limitations will expire...".
Watson has already settled 20 of the 24 suits, with four still pending. There is no telling if more women do indeed come forward in a case that has been expanding for months.
The Players Association is expected to defend Watson from suspension noting the NFL's inconsistent approach to sexual assaults' such as Dan Snyder and the Washington Commanders -- a case that recently held hearings in front of congress and the House Overnight Committee; Patriots owner Robert Kraft and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.
The Browns right now are left with nothing but questions. They signed Watson to a five year, $230 million contract this off-season, all but distancing themselves from incumbent quarterback Baker Mayfield. The Browns failed to trade Mayfield this off-season, who is still on the roster. Even with the Watson news, Cleveland has remain steadfast that Watson's future is in Cleveland as rumors keep swirling that Mayfield could get dealt.
Now there is a chance that the Browns might not have either quarterback under center come September.
