Two more women are in the process of filing civil lawsuits against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson alleging sexual misconduct during massage therapy sessions.
While two separate grand juries decided not to move forward with criminal proceedings against Watson, he’s now being sued by 26 different woman in civil court. All the women — including the two set new additions — are represented by Tony Buzbee.
The NFL has not yet made a decision about whether and to what extent Watson will be suspended. The fact that four new cases have emerged in June will make it difficult for the league to act with finality on any decision, because they don’t know that more information won’t come out. Commissioner Roger Goodell could place Watson on the exempt list, which would amount to paid leave while his legal situation is being sorted out.
Cleveland traded three first-round picks, a third-round pick and two fourth-round picks to the Houston Texans in March to acquire Watson and a sixth-round pick. They also gave him a fully-guaranteed five-year/$230 million contract, the largest deal in NFL history.
