Wait begins after Watson hearing ends
Judge’s decision could take weeks, and it still might not be final word
Another phase in the NFL’s disciplinary process against former Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson is complete, and another wait begins.
Watson’s hearing before former U.S. District Judge Sue L. Robinson concluded Thursday after three days.
Robinson, who was jointly appointed by the league and the NFL Players Association, will determine whether Watson violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy and whether to impose discipline. She asked for posthearing briefs from both Watson’s representatives and the NFL, and a final decision could take weeks.
Watson has been accused in civil lawsuits by 24 women of actions ranging from sexual assault to inappropriate behavior during massage sessions. He has reached a settlement in 20 of the cases.
The NFL has been pushing for an indefinite suspension of at least a year, while Watson’s team has argued there’s no basis for punishment, two people with knowledge of the proceedings said. ESPN reported that both sides tried to reach a settlement during the hearing but couldn’t agree.
The case likely won’t be over even after Robinson rules. If the union or league appeals the decision, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell or his designee “will issue a written decision that will constitute full, final and complete disposition of the dispute,” according to the league’s the collective bargaining agreement.
A person familiar with the case said the league believes it presented evidence to warrant keeping Watson off the field this season. The person said the league’s investigation determined Watson committed multiple violations of the personal conduct policy and that he should be required to undergo counseling before returning.
A person familiar with Watson’s defense said they expect a suspension. Asked what would be acceptable, the person said, “Our goal is to get him back on the field this year.”
On Monday, one of the four active civil suits was amended to name the Texans as a defendant. Attorney Tony Buzbee, who at one time represented all 25 women, said in a statement that “the overwhelming evidence collected indicating that the Houston Texans enabled Watson’s behavior is incredibly damning.”
Grand juries in Harris and Brazoria counties declined to pursue criminal charges against Watson earlier this year. Watson has maintained his innocence.
The Texans traded Watson to the Browns in March after the first grand jury announced it would not indict him.