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Earlier this week, former U.S. district Judge Sue L. Robinson,
picked by the league and the NFLPA as an independent
disciplinary officer, ruled Watson should be suspended six games
without pay for violating the league's personal-conduct policy
after more than two dozen women accused him of sexual
misconduct.
He played for the Houston Texans at the time.
Two Texas grand juries decided not to indict Watson on criminal
charges, and he has denied any wrongdoing. Still, he has settled
23 of the 24 civil suits brought against him by the women.
On Wednesday, the NFL appealed the decision, reportedly
contending Robinson's recommended suspension wasn't lengthy
enough. Goodell had the option to rule himself on the appeal or
appoint a designee.
He chose Harvey, who isn't a stranger to NFL issues.
Harvey is a partner at the Paterson Belknap firm in New York and
previously served as a federal prosecutor. He also has
experience in domestic violence and sexual assault cases and has
advised the NFL and other pro leagues on creating and
implementing workplace policies, including the NFL's personal
conduct policy.
He also serves on the NFL diversity advisory committee.
Goodell has called on Harvey in the past to preside over
arbitration cases, and the attorney was part of the committee
that suspended Ezekiel Elliott of the Dallas Cowboys for
violating the personal conduct policy in 2017.
The league reportedly is seeking an indefinite suspension of at
least one year for Watson.
--Field Level Media
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