Deshaun Watson may have had relief after 20 of his 24 sexual allegations were settled recently. However, the NFL is yet to announce its punishment for the Cleveland Browns quarterback. The league will commence its hearing regarding the disciplinary action against Watson on Tuesday.
However, if the league has set its eyes on punishing Watson then it also has to bring forth the team owners for violating their Personal Conduct Policy.
Deshaun Watson might be lucky enough to not be suspended for an entire year
Andrew Beaton of the Wall Street Journal reported last night that the league is looking to suspend Cleveland Browns QB Deshaun Watson indefinitely lasting for at least a full calendar year. NFL Players Association made it clear that they are against Watson being suspended because the league should have a singular set of rules for athletes and team owners alike. So, for Watson to be suspended, the NFL should also look into the allegations made against owners by their former employees and look to suspend them as well.
Things can also get out of hand once Judge Sue L. Robinson asks both sides to present her with evidence and arguments which will make her outlook on the case clear. The main decision to watch out for Judge Robinson is to what extent she allows the NFLPA’s stand to hold the owners accountable for violating their Personal Conduct Policy in light of players being suspended for the same reason.
The league will be under pressure if Judge Robinson asks the NFL to hand over evidence found in the Washington Commanders investigation and the punishment of owner Daniel Snyder to the NFLPA. Further, she could ask the NFL to hand over evidence regarding Patriots owner Robert Kraft’s solicitation arrest (the charges were dropped) or the Cowboys voyeurism scandal.
In a sense, Deshaun Watson may not be found guilty by Judge Robinson and asked to serve a suspension sentence. However, the league has the autonomy to appeal the Judge’s decision. Commissioner Roger Goodell has full and final say over the appeal. For Watson to avoid any suspension time, he must pray that Judge Robinson imposes no discipline.
