Deshaun Watson‘s on-field performance has not matched expectations in 2024, but the more pressing issue surrounding the Browns passer is the latest lawsuit filed against him for sexual assault. Watson’s most recent alleged victim is set to speak with the NFL, and a league investigation into the matter could result in another suspension.
Attorney Tony Buzbee — who is representing the woman alleging sexual assault in October 2022 and was a key figure for the plaintiffs in Watson’s original batch of lawsuits — said in a recent statement his client will cooperate with the league’s investigation noting the presence of “pertinent” video evidence. Non-league employees cannot be compelled to do so, making that development a notable one as it pertains to potential discipline. Watson has (through attorney Rusty Hardin) denied the allegations, and he will not be placed on the commissioner’s exempt list.
While the 29-year-old is therefore free to remain in place with the Browns for the time being, the potential of a second suspension has led to renewed questions about his contract. Cleveland guaranteed all of Watson’s five-year, $230M deal in 2022 with the expectation he would face a ban at some point. Watson was indeed sidelined for the first 11 games of the season stemming from sexual assault lawsuits (all but one of which have since been settled)…