The NFL recently agreed to a disciplinary settlement with Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson. The player will be suspended for the first 11 games of the 2022 season and has been fined $5 million. Watson accepted the settlement but maintained he was innocent.
The 11-game penalty was a response to a recent legal case involving 24 civil lawsuits of sexual misconduct against Watson. Former judge Sue L. Robinson hammered a six-game suspension to Watson earlier this month. The NFL, via commissioner Roger Goodell, appealed the decision, arguing that Watson should have been given a season-long suspension instead.
Goodell announced the 11-game suspension on Thursday. He thanked Robinson and former Attorney General of New Jersey Peter Harvey, who was a hand-picked designee by the commissioner to decide the player’s suspension.
“Deshaun has committed to doing the hard work on himself that is necessary for his return to the NFL,” Goodell said.
“This settlement requires compliance with a professional evaluation and treatment plan, a significant fine, and a more substantial suspension. We are grateful to Judge Robinson and Peter Harvey for their efforts in addressing these matters, which laid the foundation for reaching this conclusion.”
Watson has always maintained that he is innocent and refused to admit the allegations against him.
“I’m grateful that the disciplinary process has ended and extremely appreciative of the tremendous support I have received throughout my short time with the Browns organization. I apologize once again for any pain this situation has caused,” Watson said via a statement released by the Browns.
“I take accountability for the decisions I made. My focus going forward is on working to become the best version of myself on and off the field and supporting my teammates however possible while I’m away from the team. I’m excited about what the future holds for me in Cleveland.”
‘I stood on my innocence’ Watson says
After the suspension was issued, Watson provided his response. The three-time Pro Bowler said he accepted the penalty but maintained his innocence.
“I stood on my innocence and always said I never assaulted anyone or disrespect anyone and I continue to stand on that,” he said.
“But at the same time, I have to continue to push forward in my life and my career. For us to be able to move forward, I have to be able to take steps and put pride to the side.”
The suspension will be in effect once the Browns have finalized their lineup for the upcoming season. Watson will be eligible for reinstatement by November 28. He will return to the field for a matchup against his former team, the Houston Texans, on December 4.
“Just because settlement and things like that happen doesn’t mean that a person is guilty for anything,” The 16-year-old said.
“I feel like a person has the opportunity to stand on his innocence and prove that and we proved that on the legal side and we just gotta continue to push forward as an individual and as a person.”
The Browns have assigned former New England Patriots player Jacoby Brissett to replace Watson. Brissett was signed to a one-year contract in March after a year stint with the Miami Dolphins.