The country is divided; we all know that, but if there is one thing every American can agree with is the fact that we are all sick of the Deshaun Watson saga.
Watson is the creepy quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, most famous for having over two dozen women come forward with allegations of inappropriate conduct during massage therapy sessions. He had over 20 civil lawsuits to settle, which he did, and he avoided criminal charges.
The Houston Texans shipped him off to the Cleveland Browns, who signed him to the richest contract in NFL history, despite all the legal issues he faced.
The next step in the saga was how the NFL would punish him. He was initially suspended for just six games, with no fine. Still, the NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell appealed that decision, and Thursday, a compromise was made between the league and the NFL player’s association.
Here’s where they ended up; Watson will sit 11 games this season and have to pay a $5 million fine, which shouldn’t be a problem, considering his new contract is with over $200 million, all guaranteed.
The fine money will go to support nonprofit organizations in the U.S.
Watson released a statement that the Browns PR department clearly helped him with. He says all the right things in it. Will he change his behavior? Only time will tell.
“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. 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.”
The NFL also insisted Watson undergo counseling. Here’s a statement from Roger Goodell.
“Deshaun has committed to doing the hard work on himself that is necessary for his return to the NFL. This settlement requires compliance with a professional evaluation and treatment plan, a significant fine, and a more substantial suspension. We are grateful to Judge Robinson and Peter Harvey for their efforts in addressing these matters, which laid the foundation for reaching this conclusion.”
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