Report: Deshaun Watson suspension could range from four to 10 games

The questionable availability of Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson continues to loom over the franchise as next season draws nearer. Watson reached a total of 24 civil lawsuits of sexual misconduct against him on June 6th. As the legal situation continues to develop around him, when he’s able to return to the football field remains a question left unanswered.

In an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show, NFL Network and NFL.com’s Ian Rapaport says the league should have an answer for the Browns about Watson’s punishment heading into training camp.

“The idea is that the Browns would know before they start training camp,” said Rapaport. “In late June or early July, the NFL has had a series of fine and suspensions then. That would be the perfect time to do it. You could also do it right before training camp but I think the information that is out there now is what it is.”

When asked about the length of the suspension, Rapaport was less confident in an answer. While there’s the public information to consider, the league’s own private investigation will play a role. The time frame could shift, but Rapaport’s best guess was between four and 10 games for a Watson suspension.

“I can’t make a real guess because I have the information that’s public but I don’t have the information that’s not. I don’t know what (Watson) said in the depositions. Many any of the people involved are believing and anticipating that it will be some time off the field. I would be surprised at this point if it’s just a fine,” he said. “Is it four (games) or six or eight or ten? Probably somewhere in there, but that’s an unbelievable, drastic difference based on the percentage of the season. I really do not know and I don’t think Roger Goodell knows either.”

After trading for Watson from the Houston Texans, Cleveland went all in on the former Clemson Tiger. They signed him to a five-year, $230 million contract upon his arrival, the largest guaranteed deal in league history. With such an investment in Watson, Cleveland can now only watch as the events unfold from both the courts and the NFL League Office.