Watson suspended 11 games by NFL
League settles 23 of 24 civil suits against quarterback
Settlement follows independent investigation into allegations of misconduct
The NFL has suspended Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson for 11 games and fined him $5 million, following an independent investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct. The suspension stems from 24 civil lawsuits filed against Watson by women who accused him of sexual misconduct during massage therapy sessions. Watson settled 23 of the lawsuits before the NFL's investigation was complete.
In a statement, the NFL said that Watson's "pattern of conduct" violated the league's personal conduct policy. The league also said that Watson "failed to cooperate with the investigation" by refusing to provide a written response to the allegations.
Watson has denied the allegations and has said that he will appeal the suspension. The NFL Players Association has also said that it will support Watson's appeal.
The suspension is a major blow to the Browns, who acquired Watson from the Houston Texans in a trade earlier this year. Watson is one of the most talented quarterbacks in the NFL, and his suspension will leave a major hole in the Browns' offense.
The NFL's decision to suspend Watson is a sign that the league is taking a more serious approach to sexual misconduct. In recent years, the NFL has been criticized for its handling of sexual misconduct allegations, and the Watson suspension shows that the league is willing to take action against players who violate its personal conduct policy.
The Watson suspension is also a reminder that sexual misconduct is a serious issue that can have a devastating impact on victims. Watson's alleged actions have caused pain and suffering to 23 women. The NFL's suspension is a step in the right direction, but it is only one step. The league and society as a whole must continue to work to prevent sexual misconduct and to support victims.
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