DESHAUN WHATSON PRO

Both said they have close friends in that category. Owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam were sensitive that Watson joining the Browns might have a negative impact on anyone who has suffered sexual abuse. “We do have faith and confidence in Deshaun as a person.” “It was because of the weight of the anticipated reaction and the nature of the allegations that really pushed us to do as much work as possible internally and externally in terms of understanding the cases and who Deshaun was as a person. And that, as well as the nature of the allegations, weighed heavily on all of us. “We realize that it has triggered a range of emotions. “We as organization know that this transaction has been very difficult for many people, particularly women in our community,” Berry said. The team expected a serious backlash, and only felt comfortable in pursuing Watson after a thorough investigation Berry described as a “five-month odyssey.”īerry said the team's lawyers told the Browns not to talk to the 22 women because it could compromise any investigation. The Browns, who have spent two decades looking for a franchise QB, are taking heat for their decision to bring on a tainted player.

DESHAUN WHATSON PRO

The three-time Pro Bowler said he has no intention of settling, and that his only goal “is to clear my name as much as possible.' “I know that there’s going to be a stain that probably is going to stick with me for awhile, but all I can do is keep moving forward and to continue to show the person that I am, the true character, the true person, the true human being I am,” the 26-year-old said. Watson, acquired last week in a controversial trade that has brought the Browns widespread criticism and scrutiny, understands there are people who will never believe him. Two weeks ago, a jury in Harris County also chose not to pursue charges on nine cases. On Thursday, a grand jury in Brazoria County, Texas, declined to indict Watson on one of the original criminal complaints. “What I can continue to do is tell the truth, and that is I have never assaulted, disrespected or harassed any woman in my life,” he said. Watson has maintained any sex was consensual. He has been accused of exposing himself, touching the women with his penis and forcing himself on them. Watson didn’t play last season for Houston as the criminal and civil complaints by massage therapists mounted and before being heard by two grand juries in Texas.įlanked on the dais by Browns general manager Andrew Berry and coach Kevin Stefanski, Watson was asked why he should be believed and not the nearly two dozen women who have come forward.

It was the first time Watson has answered direct questions about the allegations, which first surfaced in March 2021. 'I’ve never done these things people are alleging.”

“I've never assaulted or disrespected or harassed any woman in my life,” Watson said.

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