News & Info/Headlines

Deshaun Watson Suspended For Six Games Pening Possible Appeal
The long wait for word on Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson‘s suspension came on Monday morning.

According to multiple reports, Judge Sue L. Robinson has ruled that Watson be suspended six games for violating the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy.

Watson was accused of sexual misconduct and sued in civil court by more than 20 women who were hired to massage him while he was a member of the Texans ahead of this year’s trade to Cleveland.

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports Robinson’s decision says Watson’s “pattern of behavior was egregious,” but notes that behavior was “nonviolent sexual conduct” in explaining the decision to suspend him six games.

Watson has settled the cases with all but one of those women as of Monday morning, but the matter of his NFL suspension may not be a settled matter. Watson or the NFL could appeal the decision and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell would hear any appeal. Goodell could impose a longer suspension if he does hear an appeal.

The NFL has three days to decide if they will appeal.

For what it's worth, Pelissero also reports that Robinson’s decision also says Watson must get all his massage therapy from club therapists.

Also worth noting, Watson’s punishment does not include a fine.

Meanwhile, the Browns had previously announced that Jacoby Brissett will be the starting quarterback until Watson is eligible to return.

Assuming this punishment stands, Watson will miss games against the Panthers, Jets, Steelers, Falcons, Chargers and Patriots.

We'll follow up on this with more detailed analysis in coming days. But this seems like a positive outcome for Watson given the circumstances. We'll see how the league counters soon enough.