Ready for another Deshaun Watson update? On Thursday, the NFL and NFLPA reached a settlement that brings the Deshaun Watson saga to an end, suspending the quarterback for 11 games without pay after he was accused of sexual misconduct by several women.
Watson will also have to pay a $5 million fine and undergo mandatory evaluation by behavioral experts.
In addition to Watson’s fine, the NFL and the Cleveland Browns will donate $1 million each to create a fund to support nonprofit organizations in the United States “that educate young people on healthy relationships, promote education and prevention of sexual misconduct and assault, support survivors, and related causes,” the NFL said in announcing the settlement.
The suspension will take effect on August 30, when NFL teams cut down their rosters to 53 men. He will be eligible for reinstatement on November 28 and will be able to play for the Browns in Week 13, when Cleveland faces his former team, the Houston Texans, on the road.
Latest Deshaun Watson Update
“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,” Watson said in a statement released by the Browns. “I apologize once again for any pain this situation has caused. 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.”
Watson maintained his innocence after meeting with reporters on Thursday. How has this impacted Cleveland Browns betting odds for this upcoming season? View our updated odds list.
“I’ll continue to stand on my innocence, just because you know settlements, and things like that happen doesn’t mean that a person is guilty for anything,” he said. “I feel like a person has an opportunity to stand on his innocence and prove that, and we proved that from a legal side, and just going to continue to push forward as an individual and as a person.”
