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Cleveland Browns executives reacted Monday to their decision to suspend Deshawn Watson for six games for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
Former federal judge Sue L. Robinson issued disciplinary action after investigating 24 civil cases in which Watson was accused of sexual assault. Watson settled with 23 of his 24 accusers.
Browns co-owners Dee Haslam and Jimmy Haslam have released a joint statement regarding the Watson issue. Head coach Kevin Stefanski also made the comment during a media interview at training camp.
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“Through this process, DeShawn and his representatives have made clear that the NFLPA and the NFL have been newly created to require an objective Judge Sue L. Robinson to comprehensively review all information and make a fair decision. We have adhered to the agreed process,” Haslam said. .
“We respect Judge Robinson’s decision and, at the same time, empathize with and understand what many individuals have been caused through this process. DeShawn said that this situation has caused a lot of heartache to many people. and he will continue to do the work necessary to show…he is who he is on and off the field and we will continue to support him.”
Stefanksi reiterated that he respects Robinson’s decision at this time.
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He was under pressure as to whether Watson had genuinely shown remorse for his alleged actions, as Haslam said in a statement. Watson has denied any wrongdoing and he said he has been working to clear his name since joining the Browns.
“I was at the practice range so I didn’t read the entire report, but I think DeShawn told you guys at the press conference.” I’ll let DeShawn speak for himself one day.”
When asked why he believed it, he replied that he would let Watson “tell himself” about it.
“But I think during my time with him and around him, I’ve seen people saying publicly and privately that they want to be the best version of themselves,” Stefanski added. I got
Regarding the message the report sent to female Browns fans, Stefanski said he felt empathy for “everyone affected by this decision.”
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“It’s not something I take lightly. I’ve talked to women in our organization. I’ve talked to women in our community. It’s something I will continue to do. Our fans, you men. , our fans are really important to us, so we want to make sure they understand that and are never fired.
Watson was signing autographs and greeting Browns fans at training camp. Stefanski said he didn’t see any commotion from the fans around the quarterback.
“To be honest, I didn’t realize much. If you say so, I believe you. Our fans have been great supporters throughout this camp,” he said. “I’m not surprised by the numbers here. I’m not surprised by how enthusiastic they are. As you know, in 2020 there were no fans and in 2021 the fan size is about half. So it’s nice to see the whole group here and it’s nice to see a lot of the kids here too.”
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The NFL could appeal Robinson’s decision to impose a six-game suspension. The league will decide within 3 days.