Let’s just be honest.
The Browns traded for Deshaun Watson because he is an excellent young quarterback who could potentially help them win a Super Bowl.
They don’t care about the 22 women who have accused him of massage assault. They didn’t talk to any of the women. They spoke to Deshaun about not embarrassing them again and had him promise no more happy endings.
I am sure they investigated the situation, not to prove Watson’s innocent or guilt, but to determine if they could take the PR hit.
The way his contract is set up, they are aware he will likely be suspended for his actions but did him a favor to make sure he doesn’t lose too much money.
The statement they made had a lot of words and said a whole lot of nothing.
“We are acutely aware and empathetic to the highly personal sentiments expressed about this decision,” Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam said in a statement. “Our team’s comprehensive evaluation process was of utmost importance due to the sensitive nature of his situation and the complex factors involved. We also understand there are still some legal proceedings that are ongoing and we will respect due process.
“It was pivotal that we, along with Andrew Berry and Kevin Stefanski, meet with Deshaun to have a straightforward dialogue, discuss our priorities, and hear directly from him on how he wants to approach his career on and off the field. He was humble, sincere and candid. In our conversations, Deshaun detailed his commitment to leading our team; he understands and embraces the hard work needed to build his name both in the community and on the field. … We are confident in Deshaun and excited about moving forward with him as our quarterback and supporting his genuine and determined efforts.”
The Browns would have been better off just not making a statement.
They are getting cooked in the comments, but we have to be honest and unbiased once again. Deshaun Watson isn’t the first or the last NFL player in the league who has committed some suspect behavior. It is hypocritical for many to be critical of the Browns and Watson when they celebrate many other athletes and teams who have done the exact same thing.
Flip the pages for the full Browns comment and some Twitter reactions.