Deshawn Watson did not play in the 2021 season after 22 women filed civil lawsuits against him for sexual harassment and misconduct; Watson, who denied any wrongdoing, recently learned that he would not face criminal charges.
The Cleveland Browns confirmed a high-profile trade deal for Deshawn Watson with the Houston Texans and defended their decision to bring the quarterback into the franchise.
The Texans also sent the Browns a fifth-round pick and will receive three first-round picks, including ahead of the next two seasons, as well as a third- and fourth-round pick as compensation for the 26-year-old.
A Texas grand jury earlier this month declined to indict Watson following allegations of sexual harassment by 22 women, meaning he will not face criminal charges and the Browns feel comfortable welcoming his return to the sport after a hiatus for the 2021 season. .
“We spent a huge amount of time looking into the possibility of a trade for Deshawn Watson,” co-owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam said in a statement. “We are acutely aware of and empathize with the purely personal feelings expressed about this decision.
“The comprehensive assessment process by our team was paramount due to the sensitive nature of his situation and complex factors. We also understand that some legal proceedings are still pending and we will follow due process.
“It was important that we, along with Andrew Berry and Kevin Stefansky, sat down with Deshawn to have a direct dialogue, discuss our priorities and hear from him how he wants to approach his career on and off the field. He was humble. , sincerely and frankly.
“In our conversations, Deshawn detailed his commitment to leading our team; he understands and accepts the hard work required to build his name both in the community and locally. Those detailed conversations, extensive evaluation process, his dedication to being a great teammate and dedication to helping others in the NFL, in the community, and through his philanthropic initiatives formed the basis for us to pursue Deshawn.
“We have confidence in Deshawn and are excited to move forward with him as our quarterback and support his sincere and determined efforts.”
Watson is still facing 22 civil indecency lawsuits during massage sessions, while he also remains subject to an NFL investigation and potential punishment under the league’s personal conduct policy. Watson denies any wrongdoing.
