ESPN analyst calls Browns about her absurd Deshaun-Watson testimony

ESPN analyst Field Yates called out the Cleveland Browns for saying quarterback Deshaun Watson is showing remorse after his recommended suspension.

On Monday, NFL Disciplinary Officer Sue L. Robinson made a decision to punish Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson, who has been accused of sexual assault and misconduct by multiple women. Robinson concluded that Watson should receive a six-game suspension without paybut did not mention any punishment.

Hours after the report fell and Robinson’s 16-page statement was released, Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam released the following statement, saying Watson is “repentant that this situation has caused much grief.”

ESPN analyst Field Yates questioned the statement, noting that Watson last spoke to the media on June 14, where the quarterback denied ever assaulting or molesting anyone. Yates asked, “At what point did he express public remorse?”

ESPN analyst calls out Brown’s statement on Deshaun Watson

Below is the interview on ESPN that Yates mentions.

Robinson’s decision to recommend a six-game suspension was ridiculed by some. especially with the wording used in their conclusion. The verdict says:

“Although this is the most significant punishment ever imposed on an NFL player for allegations of nonviolent sexual conduct, Mr. Watson’s pattern of behavior is more egregious than any previously reviewed by the NFL.”

Watson was indicted by 10 women, but two grand juries decided against indicting him. He faced 24 civil lawsuits from massage therapists and settled 23 of them, three of which took place last Sunday.

A New York Times report stated that Watson had received massages from 66 different women over a 17-month period from 2019 to 2021. This report also includes reports from some therapists detailing Watson’s behavior during the sessions.

Trading for Watson, the Browns signed a five-year, $230 million, fully guaranteed contract. Given the contract design, he will only lose $345,000 in pay for his six missed games as his base salary for the 2022 season was $1.035 million.

This situation is far from over, as the NFL can challenge the recommendation and request a broader suspension. The league, Robinson writes in her verdict, is aiming for a suspension of at least one full season.

The NFL has until Thursday, August 4 at 9 a.m. ET to file an appeal.