|
The league has been reviewing the case for
months, trying to determine whether Watson should be punished.
“The matter is closed,” league spokesman Brian McCarthy said
Friday in an email to The Associated Press. “There was
insufficient evidence to support a finding of a violation of the
personal conduct policy.”
Watson, who served an 11-game suspension in 2022, was accused of
assault in Texas by a woman in September. She was seeking more
than $1 million in damages before the sides reached a
confidential settlement.
Watson strongly denied the allegations through his attorney,
Rusty Hardin. The 29-year-old Watson suffered a season-ending
Achilles tendon rupture in October. He's been rehabbing the
injury in hopes of returning next season.
The Browns still owe Watson $46 million in each of the next two
seasons after they traded three first-round picks to Houston and
signed him to a five-year, fully guaranteed $230 million
contract that has backfired.
Watson has only played in 19 games over three seasons due to the
suspension and injuries. He was acquired by the Browns, who were
comfortable with his character despite Watson being accused of
sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage therapy
sessions while he played for the Texans.
While he's in the clear with the league, Watson's future with
Cleveland isn't so certain.
His massive contract — and its salary-cap ramifications — has
put the Browns in a bind in terms of trying to improve their
roster. Cleveland has had a disappointing season after making
the playoffs a year ago and could move on from Watson, but the
cost would be exorbitant if the team just releases him.
The Browns signed Jameis Winston for one season to be Watson's
backup. Winston has gone 2-3 as a starter since taking over and
he's put some life into Cleveland's offense, which didn't score
20 points or gain 300 yards with Watson before his injury. His
2023 season was ended by a broken bone in his shoulder,
requiring surgery.
Winston has indicated he would come back, and he could be a
viable option as a starter even if the Browns draft a young QB.
All contents © copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights
reserved |
|
