Attorneys for nearly 20 women who accused Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson of sexual misconduct after the league agreed to an 11-game suspension , accused NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. Impose her $5 million fine on the Browns quarterback on Thursday.
Tony Busby said Goodell, who called for Watson's suspension, sent a message to the victim not to speak up after a judge handed down her six-game suspension. Told.
"By solving this problem the way he did, Roger Goodell proved one of two things: his recent rhetoric is either completely silly or his barking is much worse than it used to be: his bite," Busby said in a statement to multiple outlets. The message for all victims today is clear: If you think you've been sexually assaulted by someone in power, shut up and walk away, the NFL is making sure its ownership and organization doesn't care
"To all sexual assault survivors, don't let this recent 'punishment' deter you. Keep raising your voice, keep raising your voice. Your voice matters. you are making a difference. we are with you
Goodell said, "It's terrible." Last week, Sue L. Robinson said it was "predatory" when discussing Watson's behavior as the NFL sought at least a one-year suspension following Judge's six-game suspension. The NFL appointed former New Jersey Attorney General Peter C. Harvey to hear an appeal against the ban before the settlement Thursday. 20 out of 24 civil lawsuits were settled. Most of them were his massage therapists who claimed that Watson committed sexual misconduct during his massage sessions.
Watson, 26, was traded from the Texans to the Browns in March after missing his entire 2021 season amid trade demands. The Browns immediately gave Watson a five-year, $230 million, fully-guaranteed contract. Watson's base salary for 2022 was set at just $1.035 million, assuming his suspension. He is eligible to return in Week 13 against the Texans in Houston.
