NFL Concludes Investigation into Recent Sexual Assault Allegation Against Deshaun Watson

The National Football League (NFL) has concluded its inquiry into the most recent sexual assault accusation directed at Deshaun Watson, the quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, who joined the team in 2022. The quarterback, aged 29, had been the subject of an investigation following the submission of a civil lawsuit in September by a Texas woman. This lawsuit sought $1 million (£764,000) in compensation for an alleged incident that reportedly took place during a date in October 2020. Mr. Watson denied the accusation, and the civil action was resolved through a confidential settlement. Following this, the NFL carried out its own inquiry, ultimately declaring on Saturday that no official measures would be imposed on Watson. A spokesperson for the league informed the Associated Press that “There was insufficient evidence to support a finding of a violation of the personal conduct policy,” adding, “The matter is closed.” Rusty Hardin, Watson’s attorney, conveyed to the Washington Post, “We are delighted to put this issue behind us so that Deshaun can concentrate on recovering from his injury and preparing for next season.” Previously, Watson received an 11-game suspension from the NFL for the initial part of the 2022 season, a decision that followed the filing of 24 civil lawsuits against him during his tenure with the Houston Texans. These accusations, made by several women, concerned sexual assault and misconduct during massage sessions occurring between March 2020 and March 2021. The NFL imposed a $5 million (£3.9 million) fine on Watson under its personal conduct policy and suspended him without pay. While Watson maintained his denial of these allegations, two grand juries determined there was insufficient evidence for criminal charges. Subsequently, in the summer of 2022, he reached confidential agreements with 23 of the 24 women involved. Watson has been sidelined since October due to a season-ending Achilles injury. Since joining the Browns in 2022, he has appeared in only 19 games, a limited number attributed to both suspensions and injuries.