NFL's Final Decision on Deshaun Watson Punishment Has $92 Million Impact on Browns

   

The NFL ended its investigation of Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson by announcing there was insufficient evidence for a suspension, a decision that could have major implications for the Browns.

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The league had launched an investigation after an allegation of sexual assault against Watson, who had already served an 11-game suspension in 2022 after several allegations surfaced against him. Watson's latest accuser reached a confidential settlement with the quarterback, who denied any wrongdoing.

The league announced on Friday that Watson would not be suspended.

“The matter is closed,” league spokesman Brian McCarthy told The Associated Press in a statement. “There was insufficient evidence to support a finding of a violation of the personal conduct policy.”

The decision means the Browns will still be on the hook for the $92 million in guarantees remaining for Watson. As Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio reported in September, the team would have been able to get out from Watson's contract had the investigation resulted in his suspension.

"The Browns will be able to void the future guarantees ($46 million in 2025 and another $46 million in 2026) if Watson is suspended under the Personal Conduct Policy for the allegations made in the lawsuit filed on Monday and — most importantly — if Watson failed to disclose the claim in writing before signing his original contract (or, in theory, before his latest restructuring in August)," Florio wrote.

Watson was in the midst of one of the worst statistical seasons of his career when he suffered a season-ending Achilles tear. He has been replaced by journeyman Jameis Winston.