NFL commissioner Roger Goodell met with reporters in Palm Beach, Florida, on Tuesday and addressed the latest developments regarding quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Watson, who the Houston Texans traded to the Cleveland Browns nearly two weeks ago, will resume his NFL career after spending 2021 on the sideline while facing 22 civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage sessions.
Watson was not indicted on criminal charges by two separate grand juries in Texas. Now the NFL must decide what’s next. Watson could face suspension under its personal conduct policy.
“Our people are working on it. Obviously, these are serious charges, so we’re looking at this seriously,” Goodell said. “We now at least have resolutions from the criminal side of it. Obviously there are still civil charges that are still going on. So, our investigators will hopefully have more access to information. And that will be helpful obviously in getting to the conclusion of, ‘What are the facts’ and ‘Was there a violation of the personal conduct policy.’
“But that determination will be made by a joint disciplinary officer that was established by the NFLPA and the NFL. … There’s no time frame on that. “
For his part, Watson said Friday he is focused on clearing his name.
“I never assaulted, I never disrespected and I never harassed any woman in my life,” said Watson, who indicated he would continue to fight the civil lawsuits.
“That’s not my intent,” said Watson, when asked if he would consider settling.
Here’s what to know about Watson’s future on and off the field as the lawsuits progress, the NFL continues its investigation and the Browns look to prepare for the 2022 season.
What’s next for Watson regarding the 22 lawsuits?
Unless the lawsuits…
Source : espn
