Deshaun Watson hearing: Judge Sue Robinson reportedly informs parties of discipline
Deshaun Watson has received the discipline recommendation from Judge Sue Robinson, and now comes the next step about a possible appeal, according to multiple reports, including Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.
Watson is in training camp with the Cleveland Browns after he was traded by the Houston Texans. At issue is the recently settled 23 of 24 lawsuits filed by massage therapists alleging sexual harassment and assault during appointments in 2020 and 2021. On Sunday night, the NFL Players Association issued a joint statement and said it would not appeal Robinson’s ruling and urged the league to follow suit.
“Every player, owner, business partner and stakeholder deserves to know that our process is legitimate and will not be tarnished based on the whims of the League office” the union said in a statement.
Parties involved in the disciplinary hearing for #Browns QB Deshaun Watson have been informed by Judge Sue Robinson that Watson should be suspended 6 games, sources say.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 1, 2022
Our joint statement with Deshaun Watson on the impending arbitration decision: pic.twitter.com/9ObLnHiX6J
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) July 31, 2022
If this ruling stands up, it would mean that Watson would miss games against the Carolina Panthers, New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, Atlanta Falcons, Los Angeles Chargers and New England Patriots. The Oct. 23 against the #Ravens would be his first game back.
Appeals are still up in the air. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell or someone he designates will make the decision, per terms of the collective bargaining agreement. The union then could try to challenge that ruling in federal court.