The NFL has concluded its investigation into the latest sexual assault lawsuit against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson.
watson, who served an 11-game suspension in 2022was accused of assault by woman in Texas in September. He was seeking more than $1 million in damages before the parties reached a confidential settlement.
The 29-year-old vehemently denied the allegations through his attorney, Rusty Hardin, while the league spent several months reviewing the case to determine whether Watson should be punished.
NFL closes investigation into sexual assault allegations against Deshaun Watson
“The matter is closed,” league spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email to The Associated Press on Friday. “There was insufficient evidence to support the finding of a violation of the personal conduct policy.”
Sky Sports News has sought comment from the NFL, with Watson now free of any potential fines or suspensions over the latest allegations.
What next for Watson?
Watson suffered a torn Achilles tendon in October that forced him to finish the campaign on injured reserve for the second consecutive year, but he has been recovering with hopes of returning next season.
Deshaun Watson was injured 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 backfired.
Watson played in just 19 games over three seasons due to suspensions and injuries.He was signed by the Browns, who were comfortable with his character, despite Watson being accused of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior during massage therapy sessions while playing for the Texans.
While he’s unclear with the league, Watson’s future in Cleveland is far from certain.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) passes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
Cleveland had a disappointing season after missing the playoffs a year ago and could move on from Watson, but the cost would be significant if the team simply let him go.
The Browns signed Jameis Winston to a one-season deal to be Watson’s backup.Winston has gone 2-3 as a starter and has breathed some life into a Cleveland offense that didn’t score 20 points or 300 yards before the injury.
Winston indicated he will be back and could be a viable option as a starter even if the Browns draft a young QB.
