After three days, Deshaun Watson’s NFL disciplinary hearing ended Thursday, according to multiple media reports.
Independent hearing officer Sue L. Robinson has requested post-hearing memos to be submitted the week of July 11, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. A decision on Watson’s disciplinary action is not expected until the documents are filed.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, Robinson is expected to “take his time.” Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot reported last week that a decision was expected before the start of training camp on July 27.
The NFL and NFLPA jointly appointed Robinson to oversee the hearing to determine what, if any, punishment Watson will receive as he enters his first season as the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback. Watson faces charges in civil court of sexual assault and misconduct of varying degrees by four women; he settled down with 20 others. He was represented by the NFLPA in the hearing to determine whether he violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
Deshaun Watson (AP Photo/Ron Schwane)
The NFL is reportedly arguing for at least a one-year suspension over the case. A source told Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson that they believe the NFL floated the desire for a one-year suspension in an attempt to demonstrate publicly that it is looking for severe punishment should Robinson say something less substantial.
Robinson, a retired U.S. District Court judge, was appointed to jointly oversee the hearing by the NFL and the NFLPA. Both parties have the opportunity to appeal its decision. If an appeal is filed, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell or an officer designated by him will issue a final decision under the terms of the 2020 collective bargaining agreement.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, both sides tried to reach a settlement without success before the conclusion of Thursday’s hearing.
The Browns acquired Watson in an offseason deal after the Pro Bowl quarterback sat out the entire 2021 season when allegations against him surfaced. Watson signed a fully guaranteed, five-year, $230 million contract after joining the Browns.
The attorney for Watson’s accusers, Tony Busby, announced last week that Watson had settled 20 of the 24 civil cases against. Terms remain confidential. Watson denies any wrongdoing. Two separate grand juries in Texas declined in March to indict Watson on criminal charges.
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