NFL Network announced that the NFL and NFLPA have reached an agreement on the suspension of Deshaun Watson. Per Ian Rapoport, the Cleveland Browns quarterback will have to sit out 11 games and pay a $5 million fine.
The 26-year-old player has faced 24 civil lawsuits from women accusing him of sexual misconduct and sexual assault. The off-field controversies started last year during his time with the Houston Texans. The Texans traded Watson to Cleveland on March 18, 2022, and the quarterback signed a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million deal with his new team.
Earlier this month, former federal judge Sue L. Robinson determined that Watson violated the personal conduct policy, imposing a six-game suspension. The NFL appealed the decision, seeking a lengthier sentence.
Watson will be eligible to return for the Browns' Week 13 matchup against the quarterback's former team, the Houston Texans.
"I'm grateful that the disciplinary process has ended and extremely appreciative of the tremendous support I have received throughout my short time with the Browns organization," Watson said in a statement on Thursday. "I apologize once again for any pain this situation has caused. I take accountability for the decisions I made. My focus going forward is on working to become the best version of myself on and off the field and supporting my teammates however possible while I'm away from the team. I'm excited about what the future holds for me in Cleveland."
San Francisco 49ers fans, of course, have been keeping an eye on the situation, hoping that a lengthier suspension might create some interest in quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. The team still looks to trade the veteran passer but hasn't been able to find any suitors. Watson not being suspended for the entirety of the 2022 season seemingly makes a 49ers-Browns trade unlikely.
Trey Lance, the No. 3 overall pick last year, is slated to start Week 1 for the 49ers.
"Deshaun has committed to doing the hard work on himself that is necessary for his return to the NFL," Commissioner Roger Goodell said via a statement issued by the NFL. "This settlement requires compliance with a professional evaluation and treatment plan, a significant fine, and a more substantial suspension. We are grateful to Judge Robinson and Peter Harvey for their efforts in addressing these matters, which laid the foundation for reaching this conclusion."
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