Cleveland Rape Crisis Center rips six-game suspension of Browns' Deshaun Watson

News outlets reported on Monday morning that NFL disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson had determined Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson violated the league's personal conduct policy regarding allegations of sexual misconduct during massage sessions and should be suspended for the first six games of the 2022 regular season. 

Per the terms of the collective bargaining agreement, the NFL and NFL Players Association have three business days to file an appeal, and the league later confirmed it "is reviewing Judge Robinson’s imposition of a six-game suspension and will make a determination on next steps." On Monday afternoon, the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center lashed out at the ruling that could make Watson available for over half of the upcoming campaign. 

"Cleveland Rape Crisis Center is disappointed by the decision," the organization said, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. "The six-game suspension given dangerously mirrors the flaws in our criminal justice systems and sends a grave message to our communities.

"Far too often, those in positions of power and celebrity who commit violence against others are not held accountable for their actions. These ongoing headlines are triggering for so many. To survivors, we say we see you, and we believe you."

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski told reporters last week that backup Jacoby Brissett will temporarily replace Watson atop the depth chart if the 26-year-old misses any games due to a ban. For now, Watson is able to participate in practices and August preseason contests, but it's unclear if he'll take the field for any exhibition matchups.