What did Deshaun Watson have to say about his suspension from the NFL?
Though fans may be wondering whether or not the player can return to his best, perhaps the better question is, ‘can the man?’
The under fire QB has not had his say after his suspension was handed down by the league. Is he lucky? Should he have been punished more severely? Questions without answers, but we’ve got the story.
Deshaun Watson believes he’s innocent
In the wake of an 11-game suspension, Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson was remorseful. The man at the center of a case, that saw some 24 civil suits brought against him acknowledged his wrongdoing and disclosed that he was thankful for support that he received.
“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,” Watson said. “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.” Watson also went on to add, “I’ve always been able to stand on my innocence and always said I never assaulted or disrespected anyone but at the same point I have to continue to push forward with my life and career.”
What happens to Deshaun Watson now?
Having now settled with the league, Watson will be officially suspended for 11 games and fined $5 million for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. With that, Watson’s first game will be against his former team the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium in Week 12 of the 2022-23 NFL regular season.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement following the settlement, in which he explained the reasoning behind the league’s decision as well as the motivation for appealing the recommendation set given by Judge Sue Robinson not long ago. “Deshaun has committed to doing the hard work on himself that is necessary for his return to the NFL,” Goodell said. “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.”