Deshaun Watson Suspended for Six Games for Sexual Misconduct

Watson’s case, too, has presented unique challenges: Two grand juries declined to press charges, but reporting by The New York Times showed that Watson’s use of massage therapists and his questionable behavior was far more extensive than had been known. The volume of accusations and revelations increased the scrutiny on the case and led to more calls for a substantial penalty.

“Six games is paltry,” said Helen Drew, who teaches sports law at the University at Buffalo, “The sheer volume of the complaints should compel at least a full season suspension.”

Drew added that while the N.F.L. might want to seek a longer suspension, it would have to appeal the decision to Goodell. That would likely lead to charges that the commissioner is conflicted and could result in a challenge from the union and Watson’s representatives in federal court.

An elite talent during his four seasons on the field, Watson requested a trade from the Texans after the 2020 season when Houston struggled to a 4-12 record. He was traded to the Browns in March, after a Texas grand jury declined to charge him criminally, for three first-round picks and three additional selections in the N.F.L. draft. A grand jury in a different county also opted not to bring charges against Watson.

The Browns anticipated Watson would be suspended for at least part of the 2022 season and structured his contract accordingly, loading most of his $46 million compensation for this year into a signing bonus. He will lose only a portion of his approximately $1 million base salary.

Watson can continue working out with the Browns during training camp. Pending any potential appeals, his suspension will begin with the Browns’ first regular season game on Sept. 11 against the Carolina Panthers and he would be eligible to return for the Browns’ seventh game, against the Baltimore Ravens, on Oct. 23.

By the time Watson is eligible to return from suspension it will have been about 22 months since he last played in an N.F.L. game.

Article source: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/01/sports/football/deshaun-watson-nfl-suspension.html