A lawsuit filed on Monday in Houston, Texas, alleges that Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson committed sexual assault and battery while on a date in Oct. 2020.
The new civil suit claims Watson exposed himself, requested a massage and sexually assaulted the victim before she was able to resist and get him to leave her apartment.
Watson, who at the time was on the Houston Texans, violated sections of the Texas state penal code for indecent exposure and assault, per the suit, and the plaintiff seeks damages of more than $1,000,000.
A league spokesperson declined to comment on Monday.
In Aug. 2022, the NFL suspended Watson for 11 games and fined him $5 million for violating the NFL’s personal-conduct policy after more than 20 women alleged that Watson committed sexual misconduct during massage therapy sessions.
Watson reached confidential settlements with 23 of the 24 women in 2022. He has previously denied any wrongdoing and maintained that any sex with the women was consensual. Two grand juries in Texas declined to indict Watson in 2022 on criminal complaints filed by 10 women.
Watson was required by the NFL to commit to mandatory evaluation and treatment as part of his reinstatement.
The Browns traded multiple draft picks — including three first-round selections — to Houston for Watson in March 2022 and also signed the quarterback to a five-year, fully guaranteed $230 million contract.
Watson has appeared in 13 games for the Browns and has struggled to make an impact in Cleveland due to injuries and subpar play.
Joe Thomas, a Hall of Fame left tackle who spent his entire 11-year career with the Cleveland Browns, expressed deep frustration over the team’s disappointing 2024 season. Despite entering the year with Super Bowl aspirations, the Browns currently sit at 2-7, with fans shocked by the team’s poor performance.
Thomas highlighted a lack of clear direction amidst financial implications tied to quarterback Deshaun Watson’s massive contract, as the team struggles to exceed expectations built from their playoff push last year. He fears the Browns may have to consider major changes, but the path ahead remains unclear.
Deshaun Watson has played just 19 games since signing a five-year, $230 million contract in March 2022.
Yes, But
While Thomas’s Super Bowl expectations may seem exaggerated, many analysts agree that the Browns’ roster and last season’s performance warranted optimism. Several key players enjoyed individual accolades, yet the team’s failure to capitalize on these developments raises questions about their strategy and execution.
The Browns have traded away notable players, including Amari Cooper and Za’Darius Smith, signifying a shift in focus for the remainder of the season.
As the season unfolds, the Browns may need to reassess their roster strategy and consider either a rebuild or adjustments to restore competitive legitimacy. Key decisions regarding Watson’s future with the team will dictate the trajectory for upcoming seasons.
Bottom Line
Joe Thomas’s comments underline a critical juncture for the Browns; frustration is palpable among fans and former players alike. With a struggling performance and uncertain future direction, major changes may be inevitable for a team that once fostered Super Bowl hopes.
The Cleveland Browns are exploring options to replace Deshaun Watson, with recent reports suggesting Aaron Rodgers may become available. After a disappointing stint with the New York Jets, where he struggled with injuries and a troubling performance, his potential release could open the door for the Browns to sign the four-time MVP.
Watson’s financial burden, with a $73 million cap hit for the next two seasons, makes Rodgers a more appealing and cost-effective alternative, likely running between $5-$10 million for the year. The Browns, eager to revitalize their season, could see acquiring Rodgers as a way to turn the page on the Watson saga.
