When will Deshaun Watson return from suspension for the Cleveland Browns?
November marks Deshaun Watson’s debut for the Cleveland Browns after being suspended from the NFL for 11 games
The Cleveland Browns are taking a four-game losing streak into their Monday night matchup at home with their division-rival, the Cincinnati Bengals.
Then, they play the Dolphins in Miami and the Bills in Buffalo in their toughest three-game stretch of the season before their home game against Tampa Bay. This matchup will be the Browns’ last game without their quarterback Deshaun Watson, who remains suspended by the NFL for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.
When is Watson back with the Browns?
Watson, who hasn’t appeared in an NFL game since the last game of the 2020 season, will return Week 13, against his old team, the Texans, on November 28 in Houston.
Related: Monday Night Football: Browns vs Bengals injury report
NFL comply with Watson return date
Watson’s return would mark the completion of an 11-game suspension, which was agreed on after an initial six-game ban was appealed by the league. The fine to go along with the time out was set at $5 million, all due to his off-field conduct violations.
Roger Goodell, the NFL commissioner, had a few things to say about the matter:
“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.”
The commissioner also stated that both the NFL and the Browns will donate $1 million each to create a new fund “that will support the work of non-profit organizations across the country that educate young people on healthy relationships, promote education and prevention of sexual misconduct and assault, support survivors, and related causes.”
Watson ready to move forward with career
Watson, who is now 26, has also spoken after the sanctions were agreed and although he says his is ready to move forward with his career, continues to deny any wrongdoing.
“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.”
“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 in a statement released Thursday by the Browns. “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 Browns’ bye week comes in Week 9 of this season between games against the Bengals and at the Dolphins. Jacoby Brissett has been the Browns’ starter under center in Watson’s absence.