NFL Seeks Indefinite Suspension For Deshaun Watson, According To Reports

While the hearing to decide Deshaun Watson’s fate is currently underway, reports have leaked that the NFL is recommending an indefinite suspension for the Cleveland Browns quarterback.

The indefinite suspension recommendation was first reported by The Wall Street Journal and later confirmed by Yahoo Sports. The NFL hopes the suspension would cover a full season with the option to extend it if more damaging details come to light.

Watson, 26, has settled 20 of the 24 civil suits filed against him, accusing the QB of sexual misconduct during massage sessions during his time with the Houston Texans. Watson has denied any wrongdoing to this point and has “no regrets” on his actions over the last 18 months. The Houston Texans are also being sued for allegedly “turning a blind eye” to their former quarterback’s behavior, according to the Chron.

Tuesday’s hearing is in front of former federal judge Sue L. Robinson, who is the league’s disciplinary officer approved by both the NFL and the players association. Robinson is expected to review the facts gathered by the NFL from its investigation into Watson’s off-the-field activities as well as listen to arguments from lawyers of the NFL Players Association.

If Robinson follows through with the league’s recommended punishment, Watson and his team could appeal, but any appeal would be presided over by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

Preliminary talks between Watson and the league regarding a settlement have been held as the NFL had offered the Browns QB a one-year suspension, in exchange for an agreement to not change the length of the punishment if additional details became public. Predictably, Watson turned down the proposal of a year-long ban.

Tuesday’s hearing is expected to go into Wednesday as Robinson holds the keys to Watson’s fate this season.

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