(Reuters) — Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson faces a six-game suspension for violating the National Football League’s personal-conduct policy after allegations of sexual misconduct, an independent disciplinary officer said Monday.
Former U.S. District Judge Sue L. Robinson said in her decision that Watson violated the league’s personal conduct policy “in various ways” but did not impose a fine.
A source close to the matter told Reuters the league was initially seeking a one-year suspension for Watson, one of the highest-paid players in the NFL.
As per the collective bargaining agreement, the NFL or the NFL Players Association or NFLPA is allowed to appeal on behalf of Watson within three days.
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said the league was reviewing the suspension and would decide on the next steps.
“We thank Judge Sue L. Robinson, the independent disciplinary officer, for her review of the voluminous record and attention during a three-day hearing that resulted in her finding multiple violations of the NFL Personal Conduct Policy by Deshaun Watson,” McCarthy said in a statement.
The NFLPA on Sunday called on the NFL to stand by Robinson’s ruling.
The Browns’ owners, Dee and Jimmy Haslam said they will continue to support Watson.
Deshaun Watson
