NFL Suspends Deshaun Watson for Sexual Misconduct
The National Football League (NFL) has handed down a six-game suspension to Deshaun Watson, the Cleveland Browns quarterback, for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. This suspension comes as a result of Watson’s involvement in alleged sexual misconduct against multiple massage therapists during his time with the Houston Texans. Although Watson was never criminally charged, he faced 25 civil lawsuits, of which 23 were settled out of court.
Former Federal Judge Ruling
The NFL and the NFL Players Association appointed former federal judge Sue L. Robinson as the disciplinary officer for the Watson case. On Monday, she released her decision, which included the six-game suspension. In accordance with the NFL’s personal conduct policy, Watson will serve a “baseline suspension” without pay for six games, with consideration given to any aggravating or mitigating factors.
No Appeal from Watson and NFLPA
Deshaun Watson and the NFL Players Association have chosen not to appeal the suspension. The NFL, however, has three days to appeal or else the six-game suspension will stand.
Negotiations and Punishment
Prior to Robinson’s ruling, the NFL and Watson were engaged in negotiations regarding a potential punishment. The NFL sought an indefinite suspension with a minimum length of one year and an $8 million fine. Watson’s legal team argued that he should not face any suspension since he was never criminally charged. Nevertheless, under the NFL’s conduct policy, players can still be suspended even without criminal charges.
During his suspension, Watson is allowed to play in preseason games and participate in training camp. However, he cannot be involved in any team activities for the first half of his suspension. He will be permitted to return to the team facility in Week 4 and will be eligible to play in Week 7 when the Browns face the Baltimore Ravens. Week 8 will mark Watson’s first home game in Cleveland, where the Browns will take on the Cincinnati Bengals.
Impact on Browns’ Quarterback Options
The news of Watson’s suspension has sparked speculation regarding the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation. Prior to the suspension, there were rumors that the Browns might acquire Jimmy Garoppolo from the San Francisco 49ers. However, with Watson only serving a six-game suspension, the team is expected to stick with their current backup, Jacoby Brissett, for the first six games of the season.
The Browns’ Season Schedule
The Cleveland Browns will begin the 2022 season with four home games and two road games. Their season opener will be against the Carolina Panthers on the road, followed by a Week 4 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons in Atlanta. Over the first six weeks of the season, the Browns will host the New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, LA Chargers, and New England Patriots.
Odds and Betting
Following the announcement of Watson’s suspension, oddsmakers have made adjustments to the NFL futures board. The Cleveland Browns are currently the third-favorite to win the AFC North, with their odds shifting from +275 to +230. The Cincinnati Bengals, last season’s AFC Championship winners, are the second-favorite at +210 odds, while the Baltimore Ravens remain the consensus betting favorite with odds of +165.
In terms of winning Super Bowl 57, the Browns currently have odds of +2500. These odds have seen a slight drift from their post-draft position of +1700, indicating a decrease in confidence over the past 90 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many games will Deshaun Watson be suspended for?
Deshaun Watson will serve a six-game suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
2. Has Deshaun Watson been charged with any crimes?
No, Deshaun Watson was never charged with any criminal wrongdoing related to the allegations of sexual misconduct.
3. Can Deshaun Watson appeal the suspension?
Deshaun Watson and the NFL Players Association have opted not to appeal the six-game suspension. However, the NFL has three days to launch an appeal if they choose to do so.
4. Can Deshaun Watson participate in preseason games?
Yes, Deshaun Watson is allowed to play in preseason games and participate in training camp.
5. Who will be the Browns’ starting quarterback during Watson’s suspension?
The Browns are expected to rely on Jacoby Brissett as the starting quarterback for the first six games of the season while Deshaun Watson serves his suspension.
Conclusion
The NFL’s decision to suspend Deshaun Watson for six games due to his alleged sexual misconduct has significant implications for both Watson and the Cleveland Browns. While Watson was never charged criminally, the civil lawsuits prompted the league to take action. The Browns will have to navigate the first half of the season without their star quarterback, potentially impacting their chances in a competitive AFC North division. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Watson’s return and how the Browns fare in his absence.
