Camila Sosa
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell finally spoke about the NFL investigation revolving around Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson.
As Roger Goodell explained, in a press conference given during the annual meeting of the NFL, the case about a possible sexual assault and sexual misconduct on part of Watson with 22 masseurs remains open for the league.
“We’re looking at this seriously,” Roger Goodell said, according to Stephen Holder of The Athletic. “We hope our researchers will have access to more information and that will help… An independent party will make a final decision on the findings.”
A second grand jury recently refused to indict Watson following a police investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct during massage sessions while playing with the Houston Texans, while the 26-year-old still faces 22 lawsuits from women who say he committed sexual assault and sexual misconduct.
“There is no timeframe (for a decision on a possible suspension),” Roger Goodell added, according to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports.”We have been very clear with all teams, whether the criminal matter is resolved or not, that the personal conduct policy is very important to us. They understand that’s something we’re going to continue to investigate.”
After several weeks of being interviewed by several teams interested in his services, the Browns acquired Watson on March 18 in exchange for a package that includes three first-round picks. Immediately after they made the trade, the Cleveland organization secured the quarterback’s services for the next five seasons and $230 million fully guaranteed.
“We spent a great deal of time exploring and researching the opportunity to get Deshaun Watson in trade,” Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam explained in a team news release when they got the QB’s services. “We are very aware and empathetic with the very personal feelings expressed about this decision. Our team’s comprehensive assessment process was of paramount importance due to the delicate nature of their situation and the complex factors involved.”
Watson did not play any commitments in 2021 despite the NFL declaring him eligible to play. The three-time Pro Bowler, who in 2020 threw a career-high 33 touchdowns and led the NFL with 4,823 yards, requested a trade from the Texans in January of last year amid a fractured relationship with senior management and legal problems befalling him.
“He was humble, sincere and candid,” the Haslam added. “In our conversations, Deshaun detailed his commitment to leading our team; he understands and accepts the hard work necessary to build his name both in the community and in the countryside… We have confidence in Deshaun and are excited to move forward with him as our quarterback supporting his genuine and determined efforts.”
With this background, the next few days will be key to determine what will happen to the quarterback, although everything indicates that he will receive some type of suspension.
