Browns HC Kevin Stefanski: Deshaun Watson 'is working to be the best version of himself'

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has insisted on multiple occasions that the organization "did a lot of work" as it pertains to acquiring star quarterback Deshaun Watson, who has been facing numerous allegations of sexual misconduct during massage sessions for over a year. 

After NFL disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson ruled that Watson should be suspended for six games for violating the league's personal conduct policy, Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam released a statement that said, among other things, the 26-year-old "is remorseful that this situation has caused much heartache to many." Per the league's website, Stefanski addressed the day's developments while speaking with reporters on Monday afternoon. 

"I haven't been able to read the entire ruling," Stefanski explained. "I think all along, we've been very consistent like you mentioned. That comes from a lot of work on Deshaun the person throughout this entire process. So, I'm going to remain — what we've said all along about Deshaun the person — I would mention Deshaun has said it. He is working to be the best version of himself. He's committed to that. He has said it publicly. He's said that privately. And I believe that."

Watson has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, and his camp has settled 23 of 24 civil lawsuits brought against him. Two grand juries declined to indict him on criminal charges earlier this year. 

Stefanski said last week that backup Jacoby Brissett will start any games Watson misses while banned. Meanwhile, the NFL has three business days to file an appeal of the ruling and said in a statement it "is reviewing Judge Robinson’s imposition of a six-game suspension and will make a determination on next steps." 

Watson is currently cleared to practice and to play in preseason games.