Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson and a woman known only as Jane Doe have agreed on a settlement to resolve a lawsuit, in which Doe accused Watson of sexual assault, battery, and intentionally causing emotional distress from an incident in 2020.
Tony Buzbee, Doe’s legal counsel, confirmed the confidential terms of the settlement in an email to Sportico. This resolution may have been a strategic move by Watson to protect his $230 million contract with the Browns from any possible forfeiture attempts by the team.
The settlement is pending approval from Judge Rabeea Collier of the Harris County (Texas) District Court. This could be seen as a surprising turn of events, as there were several advantages for Watson to settle the matter privately before the lawsuit was filed and before the NFL and public became aware of the allegations.
The NFL, known for its thorough investigations into allegations of sexual violence and other crimes, could suspend Watson if they conclude that he took part in such activities. They do not require a criminal conviction to determine that a player has violated workplace policy.
Watson, who was already suspended for 11 games in 2022 and fined $5 million for detrimental conduct related to allegations of sexual misconduct with massage therapists, could face harsher penalties if suspended again. The NFL may consider him a repeat offender, especially after retired Judge Sue Robinson found Watson to be involved in “predatory conduct.”
The threat of the Browns possibly voiding his contract looms larger for Watson than another NFL suspension. The contract, as obtained and reported by Sports Illustrated, contains certain clauses that could give the Browns justifiable reasons to void the agreement.
The confidentiality of the settlement likely means that Doe will not engage in further discussions with the NFL or the Browns regarding her allegations against Watson.
Buzbee, who had previously planned to share implicating evidence with the NFL, is unlikely to aid any continued investigations into Watson. Watson, now 29, has not been performing up to par for the 1-4 Browns, with calls for him to be benched. The former star of the Houston Texans has thrown five touchdowns, three interceptions, and is currently ranked 28th in passer rating.
In the meantime, Buzbee is reportedly representing over 100 accusers of Sean “Diddy” Combs, and has successfully brokered settlements for some of these individuals.
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