When the Cleveland Browns rewarded quarterback Deshaun Watson a record breaking $230 million fully guaranteed contract earlier this past offseason, they did so knowing well about Watson's ongoing battle with sexual misconduct allegations.
On Thursday a settlement between the NFL and NFLPA was reached which sentenced the Browns signal-caller with an 11 game suspension and fined $5.6 million. Shortly after the verdict came out publicly, Cleveland's general manager Andrew Berry and owner Jimmy Haslem were asked during their press conference if they would sign Watson knowing what they know now regarding his suspension.
Yes, we would," Berry said. "We felt like we made an informed decision. I understand why others may not have made the same decision that we did, but we do believe Deshaun has strong, positive qualities... He's done everything we've asked. We do believe that, as he goes through self-improvement and self-growth process, that he has an opportunity to make a strong and positive contribution to our team and organization.
Haslem also agreed with Berry's sentiment and said he would "absolutely" sign Watson again and that he deserves a second chance.
Watson, who will make his Browns debut on week 13 against the Houston Texans (his former team), will also have to complete a mandatory evaluation and treatment along with serving his 11 game suspension, the NFL announced today.#Browns owner Jimmy Haslam says Deshaun Watson deserves second chance. pic.twitter.com/A3twy7lf4v
— Scott Petrak ct (@ScottPetrak) August 18, 2022
Photo Credit: © Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
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