Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns ownership release statements on suspension settlement with NFL

The Deshaun Watson saga has finally come to finalization — at least as far as his suspension from the NFL for the 2022 season.

On Thursday, it was announced that the NFL and NFLPA have agreed to an 11-game suspension for the Cleveland Browns quarterback, along with a $5 million fine and mandatory counseling. Now, the former Clemson Tigers and Texans will be eligible to make his NFL return in Week 13 — ironically facing off against his old squad in Houston.

After the news made waves, Watson released a statement through the Browns.

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— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 18, 2022

“I’m grateful that the disciplinary process has ended and extremely appreciative of the tremendous support I have received throughout my short time with the Browns organization,” stated Watson. “I apologize once again for any pain this situation has caused. I take accountability for the decisions I made.

“My focus going forward is on working to become the best version of myself on and off the field and supporting my teammates however possible while I’m away from the team. I’m excited about what the future holds for me in Cleveland.”

Additionally, Jimmy and Dee Haslam — the owners of the Browns — also released a statement regarding the matter.

“As we have previously conveyed, Deshaun and his representatives have abided by the NFL and NFLPA structure awaiting a final decision and we have respected the process. Now that a decision on discipline has been reached, we understand this is a real opportunity to create meaningful change and we are committed to investing in programs in Northeast Ohio that will educate our youth regarding awareness, understanding, and most importantly, prevention of sexual misconduct and the many underlying causes of such behavior,” read the statement. “Since Deshaun entered our building, he has been an outstanding member of our organization and shown a true dedication to working on himself both on and off the field.”

“We will continue to support him as he focuses on earning the trust of our community.”

Moreover, Watson didn’t play at all for the Houston Texans last season as the proceedings unfolded. After the season, they traded him to the Cleveland Browns, who signed him to a massive five-year, $230 million contract with Cleveland. The entire deal will be fully guaranteed, meaning he will receive just over $46 million a year. A certain clause was worked in there, though, as Watson’s minimum salary for the 2022 season was set at just over $1 million.

Now, Deshaun Watson will serve his 11-game suspension, with his first regular season game as the quarterback of the Cleveland Browns coming Week 13.