The NFL has officially concluded its investigation into sexual assault allegations made against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson. After months of reviewing the case, the league announced it found no basis for further action against Watson under its personal conduct policy.
“The matter is closed,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy stated in an email to The Associated Press on Friday. “There was insufficient evidence to support a finding of a violation of the personal conduct policy.”
The investigation stemmed from allegations made in September by a woman in Texas, who accused Watson of sexual assault and sought over $1 million in damages. The matter was ultimately resolved through a confidential settlement. Watson, 29, has consistently denied the allegations through his attorney, Rusty Hardin.
This is not the first time Watson has faced scrutiny for off-field conduct. In 2022, he served an 11-game suspension following an extensive investigation into multiple allegations of misconduct involving massage therapists.
Watson’s suspension was one of the longest in league history under the personal conduct policy, and it significantly impacted his ability to play during his first season with the Browns.
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Watson’s challenges have extended beyond legal issues. In October, he suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon rupture, cutting short his second season in Cleveland. The former Pro Bowl quarterback is currently focused on rehabbing the injury in preparation for a return in 2025.
The Browns have a significant financial stake in Watson, having signed him to a groundbreaking fully guaranteed $230 million contract in 2022. The deal has drawn criticism as it was structured to protect Watson from major financial losses during his initial suspension.
However, the contract has largely backfired for Cleveland, as Watson has appeared in just 19 games over three seasons due to his suspension and injuries. He is set to earn $46 million annually over the next two seasons.
As the Browns face uncertainty about Watson’s future availability and performance, the conclusion of this latest investigation removes one potential hurdle. However, the team—and its embattled quarterback—remain under pressure to deliver results both on and off the field in the seasons ahead.
