reaching financial settlements with 20 of those accusers).
The NFLPA, meanwhile, argued that Watson had paid his price while sitting out all of last season. The players union also argued that the NFL was guilty of operating under a double standard by seeking such a harsh and unprecedented punishment for Watson while showing leniency for owners who have faced allegations of sexual misconduct.
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Multiple people familiar with the situation expect that Robinson’s punishment will fall well below the year-long threshold the NFL seeks. But no one knows if Robinson will suggest a ban of fewer than six games or in the eight- to 10-game range. Both rank among the outcomes that league insiders have speculated.