There has been vast speculation throughout the offseason about how long Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will be suspended. Less than a month before the start of the regular season, we finally have our answer.
It was anticipated that a decision would come on the matter within the next few days, whether that be based on the NFL’s appeal being decided upon, or a potential settlement between Watson and the NFL.
The latter occurred on Thursday, as the NFL and Watson agreed on a settlement that will see Watson suspended for 11 games, including a $5 million fine and mandatory attendance at a treatment program.
This ruling will have Watson return for the Browns in Week 12, which is fittingly against the Houston Texans where he has spent the entirety of his career up until this season.
The official decision has many around the NFL world feeling that he could have gotten a much harsher punishment.
11 games probably costs the Browns the playoffs, which makes me happy. I note, however, that a $5 million dollar fine is a pathetic 2% of his contract. https://t.co/MloeRK0jSA
— Greg Pinelo (@gregpinelo) August 18, 2022
Others find it very convenient that he just so happens to return against his former team in a game that will be heavily talked about.
https://twitter.com/RooshWilliams/status/1560296065147944962
Many believed that the NFL appealing Watson’s initial suspension of six games meant that they would attempt to make his suspension for an entire year, but it seems like they ultimately let him off the hook for the most part.
Regardless, this puts an end to the speculation and rumors regarding his suspension, and we will see him again in Week 12 against the Texans.
Unless the Browns potentially make a move for a player like Jimmy Garoppolo to come in during Watson’s absence, it certainly appears that backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett will be the Browns starting quarterback for the first 11 weeks barring any injuries.
About Reice Shipley
Reice Shipley is a staff writer for Comeback Media that graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Sports Media. He previously worked at Barrett Sports Media and is a fan of all things Syracuse sports.