An American footballer has been given a six-game ban over accusations of sexual misconduct.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson was accused by 24 ladies in Texas, the place he performed 5 seasons with the Houston Texans, and has been suspended in step with the NFL’s private conduct coverage.
The 26-year-old, who joined Cleveland in March, settled 23 of the 24 lawsuits filed by therapeutic massage therapists who alleged sexual harassment and assault throughout remedy periods in 2020 and 2021.
Two juries in Texas determined to not pursue felony fees in opposition to the Clemson University graduate earlier this yr, however the NFL has been investigating whether or not he violated its private conduct coverage since 2021.
Watson has claimed he’s harmless all through the method.
His ban for the upcoming 2022 season was handed down by NFL disciplinary officer choose Sue Robinson.
The NFL has indicated that it’ll enchantment the choice, however the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) stated in an announcement on Sunday that it’ll “stand by” the ruling and urged the league to do the identical.
Judge Robinson heard arguments from the NFL, union and Watson’s lawyer throughout a three-day listening to in June.
The NFL hoped he can be suspended for no less than a yr, whereas the NFLPA and Watson argued in opposition to a ban.
Neither of the perimeters may agree a settlement deal.
If the suspension is upheld, Watson will be capable to participate in preseason and can be capable to return to the Browns to apply throughout the second half of the ban.
Cleveland Browns co-owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam: “We respect Judge Robinson’s decision, and at the same time, empathise and understand that there have been many individuals triggered throughout this process.
“We know Deshaun is remorseful that this case has precipitated a lot heartache to many, and he’ll proceed the work wanted to indicate who he’s on and off the sphere and can proceed to help him.”
To evaluate, the ban is way lower than the total season Atlanta Falcons’ Calvin Ridley was given throughout the low season this yr for breaking betting guidelines.
It is 2 video games greater than the ban of former New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress, who was suspended for 4 video games for by accident taking pictures himself within the foot.
DeAndre Hopkins, who’s signed on with the Arizona Cardinals, acquired a six-game ban for a efficiency enhancing medicine violation, whereas receiver Josh Gordon has been suspended a complete of 78 video games by the league since 2012 for varied drug violations.
Watson was the highest ranked quarterback throughout the 2017 NFL draft and was a primary spherical decide for the Texans.
When he moved to Cleveland earlier this yr, Watson signed a totally assured, five-year $230m (£187.7m) deal.
Source: information.sky.com”