NFL Probes New Lawsuit Filed Against Deshaun Watson

The NFL has initiated a review concerning a civil lawsuit that was filed on Monday against Deshaun Watson, alleging sexual assault and battery. These incidents reportedly took place in October 2020 while Watson was playing for the Houston Texans.

Brian McCarthy, a spokesman for the NFL, stated that Watson will not be placed on the commissioner’s exempt list at this moment. This decision comes as there have been no formal criminal charges made against him and the league’s review is still in its early stages.

The lawsuit, lodged in Harris County, Texas, outlines events that unfolded before a scheduled dinner between Watson and a woman identified in the suit as “Jane Doe.” According to the filing, Watson first encountered the woman at a Houston restaurant and bar. After obtaining her phone number, he attempted to arrange a date at the Houston Galleria, but the woman felt uncomfortable meeting in public. Consequently, they decided to meet for dinner at her apartment.

On the night of their date, the woman alleges that Watson struggled to locate her apartment. He reportedly became aggressive during a phone call, expressing frustration at not being able to find her.

While preparing herself in the bathroom, the woman claims she discovered Watson naked on her bed. He allegedly requested that she massage his buttocks, to which she attempted to accommodate him by rubbing his back instead. However, Watson persisted, insisting that she massage him in an inappropriate manner.

Confronted by Watson’s advances, the woman explained that she was not a masseuse. The lawsuit then details a shocking turn of events: Watson reportedly partially disrobed her and proceeded to penetrate her without her consent, continuing to assault her for several minutes until she managed to escape into another room, where she found a heavy piece of decor to defend herself. Watson subsequently left her apartment in haste.

A spokesperson for the Cleveland Browns issued a statement saying, “We will respect the due process our legal system affords regarding the recently filed civil suit and follow the NFL’s guidelines on this matter.” The Browns currently have Watson, who is 28, on their roster.

In 2022, Watson endured an 11-game suspension after numerous allegations of sexual assault and misconduct during massage sessions surfaced. Although two grand juries in Texas declined to press criminal charges against him, he faced disciplinary action from the NFL which resulted in a settlement with the NFL Players Association. Watson also incurred a $5 million fine and was mandated to undergo evaluations and treatment before his reinstatement.

Of the 24 civil lawsuits that had been filed against Watson, 23 were settled in the summer of 2022. The lawsuit filed on Monday is distinct from the remaining civil suit involving another woman who accused Watson of sexual misconduct. It is noteworthy that the same attorney, Tony Buzbee, represents the latest plaintiff as well.

In March 2022, the Browns made headlines when they traded six draft picks, including three first-round selections, to acquire Watson. They then awarded him a fully guaranteed contract worth $230 million, which set a record for the NFL at that time.

Watson’s return from suspension and a series of injury issues have limited his opportunities, resulting in only 13 starts for the Browns. In his latest game, a 33-17 defeat against the Dallas Cowboys, he completed 24 of 45 passes, accounting for 169 yards, along with one touchdown and two interceptions. This game marked his first appearance after having season-ending shoulder surgery last November.

Source: various