NFL Rumors: Insider believes league may have dropped hint on potential Deshaun Watson suspension
A lot has happened for Deshaun Watson this offseason. After remaining with the Houston Texans for a season of purgatory, he secured a blockbuster move to the Cleveland Browns. The intention was for him to be their starting quarterback. However, at this point in time, his off-the-field legal issues remain unresolved.
He has been accused by more than 20 women of sexual misconduct. Altough no criminal proceedings are forthcoming, there are still 22 civil lawsuits pending against him. The NFL is conducting its own investigation, which could result in a lengthy suspension for the quarterback.
Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports suggested that there might be an indication being given by the league in the schedule as it pertains to this case. He has noticed that on Week 8 the Cleveland Browns will play the Cincinnati Bengals before having a bye on Week 9.
In his opinion, this could point to a theoretical length of suspension that the NFL may have for the current Cleveland Browns quarterback. The Browns may then use the bye week to bed him in after suspension. It is a novel theory and pure conjecture, but for a league known to maximize its visibility, it seems well within the realms of possibility.
Deshaun Watson's situation on and off the field
Watson did not play a single snap for the Texans in 2021 following the accusations. In the meantime, the NFL's investigation is nearing its conclusion. They previously released the following statement:
“Any transaction would have no effect on the NFL’s ongoing and comprehensive investigation of the serious allegations against Deshaun Watson. Nor would it affect his status under the Collective Bargaining Agreement and the Personal Conduct Policy."
Statement from NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy in light of the Deshaun Watson trade. The league’s investigation is ongoing. https://t.co/p5mCg2fHiS
Given the seriousness of the allegations, there is a real possibility that Deshaun Watson could be suspended this season. NFL insider Jason La Canfora has weighed in with what he thinks are tell-tale signs.
For long-suffering Browns fans who would just like to see their team do well, they will be hoping the decision comes out as soon as possible.
They have been going through the quarterback carousel for much of their modern existence and have now chosen Watson over Baker Mayfield. Until there is a verdict from the NFL and on the civil lawsuits, there will be a lingering cloud over the future of the quarterback.
Ian Rapoport doubling down that Baker Mayfield could start for the #Browns if Deshaun Watson faces a lengthy suspension. Hmmm.
Given the seriousness of the allegations, the investigation is expected to be thorough. Ultimately, some things are more important than sports. We shall have to wait until the NFL reaches its decision on the 26-year-old quarterback.