The Cleveland Browns are preparing for quarterback Deshaun Watson to miss time if he is punished for the latest sexual assault allegation.
On September 9, a new complaint surfaced against Watson, perhaps leading to additional NFL penalties. A lady claims Watson “roughly sexually assaulted” her at her flat in 2020 as she prepared for a date with him.
View the full complaint details here. Watson denied any misconduct.
The league has announced a probe into the allegations. The NFL has also confirmed that Watson will not be placed on the commissioner’s exempt list, which would essentially grant him paid vacation.
According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, the Browns are preparing for Watson’s likely absence.
“There are indications the Browns are preparing for the possibility that a suspension will be pursued, and obtained, this season,” according to Florio. “Some believe they’re evaluating available quarterbacks, even though they currently have both Jameis Winston and Dorian Thompson-Robinson on the roster.”
Browns May Have ‘Avenue’ to Void Deshaun Watson’s Contract
Watson was suspended for 11 games in 2022 after being accused of sexual assault more than 20 times. He settled with the NFL and paid a $5 million fine for breaching their personal conduct code.
According to Florio, Watson’s suspension might allow the Browns to nullify the remaining $92 million on his fully guaranteed contract, which is due in 2025 and 2026.
“Any suspension gives the Browns a potential avenue for voiding the remaining guarantees in Watson’s deal, if he did not previously disclose this claim to the team,” according to Florio. “The league, given the widespread consternation regarding the Watson contract, might not want to provide the Browns with an escape hatch.”
According to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports, Watson’s contract does not include provisions against further suspensions.
Browns QB Deshaun Watson Focused on ‘Main Thing’
Watson has also come under fire for his performance on the pitch. He had a disappointing Week 1 performance (169 yards, 1 score, and 2 interceptions). Watson improved his performance against the Jacksonville Jaguars last week. It wasn’t flawless, but Watson and the offence looked better in the 18-13 victory.
Browns coach Kevin Stefanski stated, “He made some plays and that’s who he is,” following the game. “I thought his pocket mobility and ability to make plays off schedule were remarkable. A number of those throws down the pitch were pretty remarkable, and he didn’t blink.”
Despite the off-field difficulties, Watson said he is focused on the “main thing”: helping the Browns win games.
“Stay focused on the essential point. “I know who I am, as I have previously stated,” Watson remarked. “Ultimately, I have a job to do, and that’s to play quarterback for the Cleveland Browns and be the best I can be when I step on the pitch.”
Watson and the Browns aim to make it two in a row against the New York Giants on Sunday.
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