NFL Closes Investigation into Deshaun Watson’s Sexual Assault Allegation

The NFL has officially closed its investigation into the latest allegations of sexual misconduct against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson.

The inquiry followed a civil lawsuit filed in September by a Texas woman seeking $1 million in damages. The incident reportedly occurred during a date in October 2020. Watson denied the allegations, and the lawsuit was resolved confidentially.

After conducting its own review, the NFL announced on Saturday that it would not pursue any disciplinary action. A league spokesperson stated there was insufficient evidence to establish a violation of the NFL’s personal conduct policy, officially closing the case.

Deshaun Watson’s attorney, Rusty Hardin, expressed relief over the decision, noting that the focus could now shift to Watson’s recovery from his Achilles injury and preparations for the next season.

Watson has faced significant controversy since joining the Browns. In 2022, he served an 11-game suspension after 24 civil lawsuits accused him of sexual misconduct during massage sessions while he was with the Houston Texans. That same year, Watson was fined $5 million by the league and suspended without pay under its personal conduct policy.

Although grand juries declined to bring criminal charges due to insufficient evidence, Watson settled 23 of the 24 lawsuits confidentially in 2022.

Since his trade to the Browns, Watson has played only 19 games, with injuries and disciplinary actions significantly limiting his time on the field. His 2023 season ended prematurely due to an Achilles injury sustained in October.