CLEVELAND — Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has been suspended for 11 games and must pay a fine of $5 million, the NFL confirmed Thursday afternoon.
The league said in addition to the suspension and fine, “Watson will promptly undergo a professional evaluation by behavioral experts and will follow their treatment program.”
The suspension resulted from a settlement between the NFL and the NFL Players Association, and the settlement concludes the disciplinary process.
In a statement, Watson said he appreciated the support he received and was grateful the disciplinary process had ended. He said his focus “going forward is on working to become the best version of myself on and off the field….”
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 18, 2022
Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam also made a statement pointing to the future.
“Now that a decision on discipline has been reached, we understand this is a real opportunity to create meaningful change, and we are committed to investing in programs in northeast Ohio that will educate our youth regarding awareness, understanding, and most importantly, prevention of sexual misconduct and the many underlying causes of such behavior,” the statement said.
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 18, 2022
The league said “Watson’s fine and contributions from the NFL and the Browns of $1 million each will create a fund of $7 million,” which will “support the work of nonprofit organizations across the country that educate young people on healthy relationships, promote education and prevention of sexual misconduct and assault, support survivors, and related causes.”
A six-game suspension had been originally suggested by former U.S. District Judge Sue L. Robinson, but the NFL appealed the ruling. Robinson’s ruling found Watson violated the league’s personal conduct policy on multiple occasions.
Former New Jersey Attorney General Peter C. Harvey handled the appeal.
Watson, who signed a five-year, $230 million deal with the Browns, faced 24 civil lawsuits for sexual misconduct.
The NFL said Watson’s suspension will take effect at the final roster cutdown. He will be eligible for reinstatement Nov. 28.
This is a breaking story and more information will be published when it is available.
