The Cleveland Browns respond to criticism as Deshaun Watson formally joins the team amid accusations of sexual misconduct.
Deshaun Watson has officially become a member of the Cleveland Browns, as announced by the team on Sunday. Despite facing allegations of sexual misconduct, the Browns revealed that Watson had signed with them to take on the role of the new quarterback, courtesy of a trade with the Houston Texans. The team’s previous star quarterback, Baker Mayfield, is said to have requested a trade.
In their statement, Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam acknowledged the mixed sentiments among fans regarding Watson’s signing but expressed confidence in their decision. The Haslams recognized the sensitivity of Watson’s situation and the intricate factors involved in their thorough evaluation process.
Watson, accused of sexual misconduct by nearly two dozen women during his time in Houston, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. A Texas grand jury recently chose not to indict and charge Watson, but he still faces civil lawsuits from massage therapists accusing him of assault and harassment. Potential NFL suspension for violating the league’s personal conduct policy looms over Watson, unrelated to the trade.
Despite initial reluctance from Watson, who initially rejected the move, he eventually waived his no-trade clause and accepted the trade to the Browns. The quarterback’s position in Cleveland will make him the highest-paid player in the NFL with a guaranteed contract worth $230 million over five years, according to The Associated Press.
Prior to the official announcement, Watson shared a picture on Instagram wearing a Browns jersey and expressed enthusiasm for joining the team. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski and General Manager Andrew Berry both supported the decision, emphasizing the importance of their evaluation process and expressing confidence in Watson’s positive impact on the team and community.
Nevertheless, not everyone is ready to give Watson the benefit of the doubt. The Cleveland Rape Crisis Center released a statement acknowledging the difficulty some may face with the news and offered support for those affected, recognizing the triggering nature of the situation and expressing solidarity with the community’s sentiments.
