After a long year of allegations and lawsuits, Deshaun Watson's sex offender saga comes to a close as the NFL closes its investigation this morning with a six-game suspension. Many would have liked to seen a lengthier suspension for his actions, but this seems like a fair compromise as no legal actions were taken against Watson.
Watson is to miss games against the Panthers, Jets, Steelers, Falcons, Chargers, and Patriots. Jacoby Brissett is expected to start during his absence in a very low-risk start to the season. With a well-rounded roster that Cleveland has built, it is very possible that Watson is a non-factor. Key games against AFC opponents could make a difference in the late-season playoff hunt and losses to the Chargers and Patriots could cost them heavily.
The winner in this ruling hands down is disenfranchised former Browns QB, Baker Mayfield, who has a chance to start against Cleveland in their season opener against the Panthers. A win likely means nothing for the Panthers other than a moral victory, but if the Browns end up one game out of the playoffs you can blame the man they once hailed as a savior for their franchise.
Update 8/2/22 4:00pm EST:
The NFL is appealing Watson's ruling in an attempt to lengthen his suspension for his personal misconduct. The NFLPA has two days to respond to this appeal.
If Watson's suspension is lengthened I would put a fork in the Browns' season and effectively write them out of the playoffs despite Brissett's best efforts.
Update 8/2/22 8:08pm EST:
It is reported that the NFL is seeking at least an entire season suspension for Watson.
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