After three days, Deshaun WatsonNFL disciplinary hearing ends on Thursday, according to many media reports.
Independent hearing officer Sue L. Robinson requested a post-hearing summary due the week of July 11, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. A decision on Watson’s discipline is not expected until abstracts are filed.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, Robinson is expected to “take her time”. Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot reported last week that a decision is expected in advance to start training camp on July 27.
The NFL and NFLPA jointly appointed Robinson to oversee the hearing to determine what, if any, penalties Watson faced as he entered his first season as a Cleveland Browns fullback. Watson’s face Allegations in civil court of sexual assault and misconduct in varying degrees by four women; he settle down with 20 other people. He was represented by the NFLPA in a hearing to determine whether he violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
The The NFL reportedly argued for a suspension of at least a year in case. A source told Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson that they believe the NFL has revealed its desire to suspend a year in an effort to prove publicly that they were seeking a severe punishment in the event that Robinson ran into something less significant.
Robinson, one Retired US District Court judge, was jointly appointed to oversee NFL and NFLPA hearings. Both parties have the right to appeal her decision. If an appeal is filed, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell or an official he designates will make the final decision, subject to the terms of the 2020 collective bargaining agreement.
Every ESPN’s Dan Graziano, both sides tried unsuccessfully to reach an agreement before the end of Thursday’s hearing.
The Browns acquired Watson in a season transaction after the Pro Bowl quarterback sidelined the entire 2021 season when the allegations against him were revealed. Watson signed a five-year, $230 million contract fully guaranteed after joining the Browns.
Last week, the attorney for Watson’s accusers, Tony Buzbee, announced that Watson has settled 20 of 24 civil lawsuits against. Terms remain confidential. Watson denies any wrongdoing. Two separate juries in Texas in March refused to prosecute Watson for criminal charges.