The NFL has recently appealed the six-game suspension for Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson, stating that the penalty should be even tougher under the league's personal conduct policy. This comes after disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson's ruling on Monday. In an attempt to ensure the integrity and safety of the league, the NFL seeks an indefinite suspension of a minimum of one year, a monetary fine, and mandatory treatment for Watson.
The NFL Players Association also had the right to appeal Robinson's ruling. However, they announced on Sunday night that they would "stand by her decision" and not pursue an appeal, urging the league to agree to the same. Nevertheless, sources indicate that the NFLPA is prepared to take legal action against the NFL in federal court if the appeal is pursued.
The NFL's appeal will be followed by a hearing, in which NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will determine who will oversee the process. Goodell can either handle the appeal himself or appoint a designee to do so. The hearing will be limited to arguments from the evidentiary record from the previous three-day hearing before Robinson in late June.
As we await the NFLPA's written response to the appeal, it is evident that this case has far-reaching implications. The league's decision, once made, will be final and binding to all parties involved. The Browns had no immediate comment on the appeal, but it is clear that the outcome will significantly impact the team and its quarterback.
NFLPA's Response and the Path Ahead
The NFL Players Association now faces a crucial decision in responding to the NFL's appeal. Meanwhile, Goodell will decide whether to handle the appeal himself or appoint a designee to oversee the process. The appeal will be processed on an "expedited basis," but the NFL has not provided a specific timeline for the ruling. This adds to the anticipation surrounding this high-profile case.
It is worth noting that Watson was on the field when he received the news of the appeal. A team official had to inform him of the NFL's decision, which undoubtedly added to the complexity and emotional toll of the situation. The Browns' owners, Dee and Jimmy Haslam, expressed their continued support for Watson and emphasized their commitment to helping him navigate through this challenging time.
Unpacking the Six-Game Suspension
Robinson issued the initial six-game suspension on Monday, stating that the NFL had provided sufficient evidence to prove that Watson engaged in sexual assault against the four therapists named in the report. Her ruling highlighted the genuine danger posed by Watson's conduct and how it undermined the league's integrity.
While the NFL had recommended a more severe penalty, Robinson distinguished between violent and nonviolent sexual conduct, ultimately settling on a six-game suspension. In her ruling, she mentioned that Watson's behavior did not meet the criteria for a longer suspension typically imposed for domestic or gendered violence and sexual acts. Furthermore, Robinson highlighted that Watson's conduct had cast "a negative light on the League and its players."
Watson's Denial and the Legal Backdrop
Deshaun Watson has consistently denied all allegations of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage sessions. He maintains his innocence and has cooperated fully with the NFL's investigation. Watson's legal team claims that he answered every question truthfully and regrets no actions taken during the massage sessions.
While two grand juries in Texas declined to pursue criminal charges against Watson, the NFL has continued its investigation into potential violations of its personal conduct policy. The league interviewed Watson and several of the women involved in the lawsuits. However, attorney Tony Buzbee, who represents the women suing Watson, claims that the NFL interviewed only 10 of his clients, not the reported 12.
The Browns' Dilemma and Moving Forward
The Cleveland Browns traded for Deshaun Watson in March, demonstrating their belief in his talent and potential. However, the recent suspension and ongoing legal battles have created uncertainty for both Watson and the team. Head coach Kevin Stefanski announced that Jacoby Brissett would be the starter in the event of a Watson suspension. The Browns will have to carefully plan their strategy and snap distribution until more information becomes available.
It remains to be seen how the NFL's appeal will impact Deshaun Watson's future and the Cleveland Browns' season. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly shape the league's approach to personal conduct violations moving forward. As fans and stakeholders, we can only hope for a fair and just resolution that upholds the values of the game we love.
