After months of speculation, there may finally be an initial ruling on Cleveland Browns’ quarterback Deshaun Watson’s 2022 status with the team. According to Josina Anderson, hearing officer Sue Robinson is expected to announce a ruling tomorrow.
According to her tweet, each party has been notified Robinson’s brief will be released tomorrow. The exact time is unknown.
CBS’ Jonathan Jones tweeted similar.
Watson’s hearing wrapped up earlier this months with each side, the NFLPA and the league, submitting their briefs on July 11th. Since, the football world has been waiting for a decision.
Robinson has the ability to offer any discipline. It could range from no punishment to a full year or more, and anything in between. Speculation has indicated a middle ground suspension of 6-8 games, but no one knows what Robinson’s opinion will be.
If there is some sort of punishment issued, Goodell and the NFL has the ability to change it to anything they see fit. Both sides also have the right to appeal, meaning Robinson’s ruling may not be final. (Update: 9:15 PM. The NFLPA has said it will not appeal the decision).
Watson has been accused of sexual assault and harassment by more than two dozen massage therapists. He still has four outstanding civil suits. Watson has denied all allegations. Cleveland traded for him earlier in the offseason while giving him a fully-guaranteed $230 million deal. If Watson misses time, veteran Jacoby Brissett is next in line. Baker Mayfield was traded to the Carolina Panthers earlier this summer.
Pittsburgh will face the Browns in Week 3 and 18.
