Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson reportedly suspended for 6 games for violating NFL conduct policy

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson was suspended Monday for six games for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy, according to two sources who spoke anonymously to the Associated Press. The purported ruling comes after more than two dozen women in Texas made accusations of sexual misconduct.

The quarterback was suspended by the NFL for purportedly violating the league’s personal conduct policy, a decision by disciplinary officer and former U.S. District Court Judge and Bush 41 appointee Sue L. Robinson, which has not yet been publicly released.

Watson, who played four seasons with the Texan team before being traded to the Cleveland Browns in March settled 23 of 24 sexual harassment and assault lawsuits filed by women who said the incidents occurred during massage treatments between 2021 and 2021.

“Watson's former team, the Houston Texans, reached confidential settlements on July 15 with 30 women who have made or intended to make claims against the organization for allegedly enabling Watson's behavior during massage therapy sessions,” according to NFL.com.

The league asked for a $5 million fine and indefinite suspension for at least one year during Watson’s three day hearing in June.

The NFL Players’ Association has said it would comply with Robinson’s ruling. If either side appeals, the matter could end up in federal court.

“The NFL Players Association issued a statement on Sunday stating that it would not appeal Robinson's ruling. [NFL Network Insider Ian] Rapoport reported it is currently unclear if the league will appeal the ruling. The NFL has three days to appeal Robinson's decision,” NFL.com added.

Per the terms of the league rules, Watson is allowed to continue practicing and playing in exhibition games before his suspension starts during the first week of the regular season. He is expected to return on Oct. 23 when Cleveland plays the Baltimore Ravens.