The NFL’s investigation into sexual assault allegations against Deshaun Watson has concluded.
After studying the matter over the past several months, the league has ended the investigation.
An N.F.L The spokesperson cited a lack of sufficient evidence and explained the decision to drop the investigation.
“The matter is closed,” league spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email to The Associated Press. “There was insufficient evidence to support a finding of a violation of the Personal Conduct Policy.”
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Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson heads to the sideline during the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals on Oct. 20, 2024, in Cleveland. (Jeff Lange/USA Today Network via Imagn Images)
Watson will not face any punishment from the league. Since his arrival in Clevelandthe three-time Pro Bowl quarterback has especially struggled once he’s been healthy enough to take the field.
He played only 19 games in three seasons due to suspension and injuries.
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He finished the season on injured reserve for the second year in a row after suffering an Achilles tendon tear in October. The 29-year-old quarterback continues to recover from the injury in hopes of returning next season.
Watson served an 11-match suspension in 2022. In September, a woman accused him of sexual assault in Texas. She sought more than $1 million in damages before the parties reached a confidential settlement.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson appears to throw a pass during practice at the team’s training facility on Nov. 16, 2022, in Berea, Ohio. (AP Photo/David Richard)
Watson denied the allegations through his attorney, Rusty Hardin.
The Browns still owe Watson $46 million over the next two seasons after trading three first-round picks to Houston and signing him to a five-year, fully guaranteed $230 million contract that has backfired .
Watson was acquired by the Browns, who felt comfortable with his character despite Watson being accused of sexual assault and inappropriate behavior during massage therapy sessions while playing for the club. Houston Texans.
Quarterback Deshaun Watson of the Cleveland Browns speaks during a press conference at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on March 25, 2022 in Berea, Ohio. (Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
Watson’s future with the Browns remains uncertain.
His huge contract – and its implications for the salary cap – has left the Browns in a bind when it comes to improving their roster. Cleveland is coming off a disappointing season after making the playoffs a year ago and could move on from Watson, but the cost would be exorbitant if the team releases him.
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The Browns signed Jameis Winston to be Watson’s backup for one season. Winston has a 2-3 lead as a starter since taking over. The Steelers host the Browns Sunday. Cleveland upset Pittsburgh in Week 12 in a snowy AFC North tilt.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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