After three days, Deshaun Watson’s disciplinary hearing in the NFL ended Thursday, according to several media reports.
Independent Hearing Officer Sue L. Robinson requested the post-hearing briefs that expire the week of July 11, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. A decision on Watson’s discipline is not expected until after the writs have been filed.
Robinson is expected to “take his time,” according to ESPN’s Dan Graziano. Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reported last week that a decision is expected ahead of the start of training camp on July 27th.
The NFL and NFLPA jointly appointed Robinson to oversee the audience to determine what, if any, punishment Watson faces as he enters his first season as a Cleveland Browns quarterback. Watson faces charges in civil court of sexual assault and misconduct of varying degrees by four women; settled with 20 more. He was represented by the NFLPA at the hearing to determine whether he violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
Deshaun Watson (Photo by AP / Ron Schwane)
According to reports, the NFL argued a suspension of at least a year in the case. A source told Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson that they believe the NFL leaked the desire for a one-year suspension in an effort to publicly prove he was looking for a harsh punishment in the event Robinson gave something less substantial.
Robinson, a retired U.S. District Court judge, was jointly appointed to oversee the NFL and NFLPA hearing. Both parties have the option to appeal their decision. If an appeal is filed, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, or an officer he designates, will issue a final decision, under the terms of the 2020 collective agreement.
For ESPN’s Dan Graziano, both sides tried to reach an unsuccessful agreement before the hearing concluded on Thursday.
The Browns acquired Watson in a low-season change after the Pro Bowl quarterback settled in for the entire 2021 season as allegations against him unfold. Watson signed a five-year, $ 230 million, fully guaranteed deal after joining the Browns.
Watson’s attorney’s attorney, Tony Buzbee, announced last week that Watson had resolved 20 of the 24 civil lawsuits he was facing. The terms remain confidential. Watson denies any crime. Two separate grand juries in Texas refused in March to charge Watson with criminal charges.