"We will continue to support him" - Browns owners deliver definitive statement on Deshaun Watson's six-game suspension
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson finally learned his fate. A six-game suspension was handed down by Judge Sue L. Robinson, so the Browns will be without their star quarterback for only a small portion of the 2022-23 season.
Watson was accused by around two dozen women of sexual misconduct. These allegations were about his alleged inappropriate behavior during massage sessions.
While the quarterback was exonerated in the criminal cases, the civil cases continued to haunt him. He is also now facing charges of violating the Personal Conduct Policy of NFL.
As expected, fans had a mixed reaction to the verdict, with some saying that the ban was not long enough, while others thought six games was about right.
Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam released a statement following the ruling, making it a point to say that they will be supporting Watson.
"Throughout this process, Deshaun and his representatives have abided by the newly created and agreed upon process for the NFLPA and the NFL to defer to the objective Judge Sue L. Robinson to comprehensively review all in formation and make a fair decision.
"We respect Judge Robinson's decision and at the same time, empathize and understand that there have been many individuals triggered throughout this process.
"We know Deshaun is remorseful that this situation has caused much heartache to many and he will continue the work needed to show who he is on and off the field, and we will continue to support him."
Browns’ owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam: https://t.co/bMDsBNpe6o
What does Deshaun Watson's suspension mean for the Cleveland Browns' season?
From a footballing perspective, a six-game suspension is probably the best outcome the Browns could have hoped for. With Watson missing just six games, Cleveland still have hopes of securing a playoff berth in 2023.
It will now be up to Jacoby Brissett, Josh Rosen, or Joshua Dobbs to keep the franchise afloat until their star quarterback returns.
The Browns open their season with a clash against the Panthers, followed by games against the Jets, Steelers, Falcons, Chargers and the Patriots before their superstar quarterback is eligible to return.
It will likely take the 26-year-old some time to get adjusted to the game as he has not played a snap for the best part of two years. But when he gets his feet underneath him, the Browns are going to be serious contenders in the Super Bowl race.
If the Browns can win at least three games during the former Clemson star's absence, they will be in a strong position to make the playoffs and potentially embark on a deep postseason run.