Report: 'No indication' decision on Deshaun Watson will come this week
Analysts and fans alike are left guessing and searching for any available clues as they wait for answers on the situation involving Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson, allegations of sexual misconduct during massage sessions, the NFL and the NFL Players Association.
It was learned Monday that the NFLPA and Watson's camp could take the fight to federal court if the signal-caller receives a full-season suspension either from disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson or following an appeal. On Tuesday morning, Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio reported that "one source who has reviewed the materials submitted last week by the parties" to Judge Robinson believes Watson ultimately will be banned for "two to eight games."
"Whether the league would appeal such an outcome, and whether commissioner Roger Goodell or his designee would impose a dramatically longer ban, remains to be seen," Florio added.
Meanwhile, Josina Anderson of CBS Sports tweeted there's currently "no indication" Judge Robinson's decision will come this week.
The NFLPA has reportedly fought against Watson receiving any suspension, while the league has argued the 26-year-old should essentially be banned indefinitely and made ineligible to play for the entire 2022 season.
Watson has maintained his innocence throughout the legal process, had two grand juries decline to indict him, and also had his legal team reach settlements with 20 of 24 women who previously sued him.
Jacoby Brissett is Cleveland's backup at the sport's most important position and would be on track to start if Watson can't play in Week 1 in September unless the Browns pursue a different option during the preseason.
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