The NFL has ended its investigation into the latest sexual assault lawsuit against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Watson, who served an 11-game suspension in 2022, was accused of a assault in Texas by a woman in September. She was seeking more than $1 million in damages before the sides reached a confidential settlement.
The 29-year-old strongly denied the allegations through his attorney, Rusty Hardin, while the league has spent several months reviewing the case to determine whether Watson should be punished.
“The matter is closed,” league spokesman Brian McCarthy said Friday, in an email to The Associated Press. “There was insufficient evidence to support a finding of a violation of the personal conduct policy.”
Sky Sports News has asked the NFL for comment, with Watson now clear of any potential fine or suspension over the latest allegations.
What next for Watson?
Watson suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon rupture in October, leaving him ending the campaign on injured reserve for the second year in a row, but has been rehabbing in the hope of returning next season.
Deshaun Watson was injured during their match against the Cincinnati Bengals in October
The Browns still owe Watson $46 million in each of the next two seasons after they traded three first-round picks to Houston and signed him to a five-year, fully guaranteed $230 million contract that has backfired.
Watson has only played in 19 games over three seasons due to the suspension and injuries. He was acquired by the Browns, who were comfortable with his character despite Watson being accused of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage therapy sessions while he played for the Texans.
While he’s in the clear with the league, Watson’s future with Cleveland isn’t so certain. His massive contract – and its salary-cap ramifications – has put the Browns in a bind in terms of trying to improve their roster.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) passes in the first half of an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
Cleveland has had a disappointing season after making the playoffs a year ago and could move on from Watson, but the cost would be significant if the team just releases him.
The Browns signed Jameis Winston for one season to be Watson’s backup. Winston has gone 2-3 as a starter since taking over and he’s put some life into Cleveland’s offense, which didn’t score 20 points or gain 300 yards with Watson before his injury.
Winston has indicated he would come back and could be a viable option as a starter, even if the Browns draft a young QB.
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