(Berea) Deshaun Watson is training and still waiting. He is starting to get used to this situation.
Posted at 1:52 p.m.
The controversial Cleveland Browns quarterback was on the field Wednesday when the team opened camp. It remains unclear whether Watson will be suspended by the NFL for violating its personal conduct policy.
Watson has been accused of sexual misconduct by more than two dozen Texas massage therapists and the 26-year-old star quarterback could face punishment by Discipline Prefect Sue L. Robinson, who has been investigating the case for several weeks.
Robinson, a retired judge hired by the league and the NFL Players Association to handle the penalties, was expected to deliver her decision before the start of camp for the Browns. However, this did not happen.
The Browns, who disappointed in 2021 by going 8-9, could have a different campaign depending on the decision Robinson makes.
Defensive end Myles Garrett said Browns members will stick together whether Watson can play or not.
“We’re going to let it work out and we want to maintain a high standard no matter what happens,” said Garrett, who set a team record with 16 sacks last season. Our defense will do that. As far as I know, the other team can’t win if they don’t score. »
Even though he is suspended, Watson will be able to train with the Browns. Garrett said his presence will help build cohesion with his teammates, which was lacking last season after several close losses and a difficult divorce from receiver Odell Beckham Jr.
“We’ll be ready whether he’s on the court or not,” Garrett said. We don’t want it to be a distraction. He is with us today. It will be throughout the season during training.
“He’s going to be with us again in the gym, he’s going to be able to interact with us. He will be a full member of the team, for all intents and purposes. »
The Browns have been dealing with the uncertainty surrounding Watson since acquiring him from the Houston Texans and signing him to a $230 million contract in March.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II said the situation surrounding Watson was not a distraction for him and his teammates.
“When he’s in the building, he doesn’t act like someone who’s a distraction,” Newsome said. He focuses on football and nothing but that. So we’re going to worry about football and nothing else.
“We’ll let the rest sort itself out. We are already at a point where we are focusing on the season. Of course we hope that D-Wat will be there from the first week. But if not, we are counting on other players who can pick up the slack and play the right way. »