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Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has been suspended for the first 11 National Football League (NFL) games this season and fined $5 million after the league appealed the initial six-game ban punishment under the league’s Personal Conduct Policy following allegations of sexual misconduct.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell appointed former New Jersey Attorney General Peter C Harvey to hear the case. The 26-year-old was accused by more than two dozen Houston-area massage therapists of sexual misconduct. Watson has settled 23 of the 24 civil lawsuits as per Sky Sports.
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After his suspension announcement, Watson appreciated the support he has been received from his new club Cleveland Browns and apologised to the affected people. "I'm grateful that the disciplinary process has ended and am extremely appreciative of the tremendous support I have received throughout my short time with the Browns organisation," Watson said.
"I apologise once again for any pain this situation has caused. I take accountability for the decisions I made. My focus going forward is on working to become the best version of myself on and off the field and supporting my team-mates however possible while I am away from the team. I am excited for what the future holds for me and Cleveland," he added.
Commissioner Roger Goodell stated, "Deshaun has committed to doing the hard work on himself that is necessary for his return to the NFL. This settlement requires compliance with a professional evaluation and treatment plan, a significant fine, and a more substantial suspension. We are grateful to Judge Robinson and Peter Harvey for their efforts in addressing these matters, which laid the foundation for reaching this conclusion."
Watson was traded to the Cleveland Browns this offseason from the Houston Texans for a package that included three first round picks.