NFL ends probe into Deshaun Watson’s latest sexual assault case, but questions remain

NFL Concludes Investigation into Deshaun Watson’s Latest Sexual Assault Allegations

The NFL has officially wrapped up its review of the sexual assault allegations made against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson back in September, according to a league spokesperson who spoke with ESPN. After months of scrutiny, the league determined that there was insufficient evidence to support a violation of its personal conduct policy.

This latest chapter in Watson’s ongoing legal saga began just one day after the Browns’ season opener, when a new lawsuit was filed accusing the quarterback of sexual assault and battery. The case, which was filed on September 9 in Harris County, Texas, alleged that the incident occurred in October 2020, when Watson was still a member of the Houston Texans. According to the lawsuit, the alleged actions took place before Watson and the woman, identified as Jane Doe, were set to have dinner at her apartment.

By October, however, lawyers for both sides informed ESPN that the case had been resolved. Attorney Tony Buzbee, who represented the woman suing Watson, confirmed that a confidential settlement had been reached. Despite the resolution, the NFL launched its own investigation into the matter under its personal conduct policy. However, the league opted not to place Watson on the commissioner’s exempt list, citing the absence of formal charges and the early stage of the review process at the time.

Watson’s Denial and Legal History

Watson, 29, denied the allegations through a statement issued by his attorney, Rusty Hardin. This denial is consistent with Watson’s stance in previous legal battles. In 2022, Watson served an 11-game suspension after more than two dozen women accused him of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage sessions. While two Texas grand juries declined to pursue criminal charges, the NFL and the NFL Players Association reached a settlement in his disciplinary case. As part of the agreement, Watson was fined $5 million, required to undergo mandatory evaluation by behavioral experts, and instructed to follow their recommended treatment program before being reinstated by the league.

In the summer of 2022, Watson settled 23 of the 24 lawsuits filed against him. The lawsuit filed in September was unrelated to the two remaining active lawsuits—one from the summer of 2022 and another filed that October—both of which involve allegations of sexual misconduct during massage sessions.

Watson’s On-Field Struggles

While Watson’s legal troubles have dominated headlines, his performance on the field this season has also been underwhelming. The quarterback started seven games for the Browns before suffering a season-ending right Achilles tendon tear in Week 7. To make matters worse, Watson has posted the lowest total QBR in the NFL this season, a statistic that underscores his struggles to regain his Pro Bowl form since joining Cleveland.

Key Takeaways from the NFL’s Decision

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key points surrounding the NFL’s decision to end its review of the latest allegations against Watson:

• The NFL found insufficient evidence to determine a violation of its personal conduct policy.
• The lawsuit filed in September was resolved through a confidential settlement, as confirmed by the plaintiff’s attorney, Tony Buzbee.
• Watson has faced a total of 26 lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct, settling 23 of them in 2022.
• Despite his legal troubles, Watson was not placed on the commissioner’s exempt list during the investigation.
• Watson’s on-field performance this season has been disappointing, with the lowest total QBR in the league.

What’s Next for Deshaun Watson?

With the NFL concluding its investigation, Watson can now focus on his recovery from the Achilles injury and preparing for the 2024 season. However, the shadow of his legal history continues to loom large, and his performance on the field will be under intense scrutiny as he attempts to justify the Browns’ massive investment in him. Cleveland traded significant draft capital and signed Watson to a fully guaranteed $230 million contract, a move that has been heavily criticized given the quarterback’s off-field controversies and inconsistent play.

For now, the NFL’s decision to close the book on this latest allegation provides some clarity, but it’s clear that Watson’s reputation and legacy remain a polarizing topic among fans, analysts, and the league itself.