GM Andrew Berry: Browns did 'extensive' investigation of Deshaun Watson before trade

The blockbuster trade to send Deshaun Watson from the Houston Texans to the Cleveland Browns became official Sunday. In a series of statements, the Browns explained their reasoning for acquiring Watson, despite his legal troubles relating to allegations of sexual misconduct.

"We have done extensive investigative, legal and reference work over the past several months to provide us with the appropriate information needed to make an informed decision about pursuing him and moving forward with him as our quarterback," Browns general manager Andrew Berry said. "Deshaun has been among the very best at the position and he understands the work needed to re-establish himself on and off the field in Cleveland."

Watson, 26, was cleared by a Houston grand jury on 10 criminal complaints, but the quarterback is still facing 22 civil lawsuits.

"We spent a tremendous amount of time exploring and investigating the opportunity to trade for Deshaun Watson," team owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam said. "We are acutely aware and empathetic to the highly personal sentiments expressed about this decision. Our team's comprehensive evaluation process was of utmost importance due to the sensitive nature of his situation and the complex factors involved."

While the team expressed multiple times Sunday that it spent a "tremendous amount of time" on an "extensive" investigation of Watson's conduct, the lawyer representing the women who have levied allegations against the quarterback disagreed.