By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football Writer
CLEVELAND – Deshaun Watson’s legal team takes on the NFL on Tuesday in front of a retired judge to determine his immediate future with the Browns.
Former U.S. District Judge Sue Robinson, who was jointly appointed by the league and the NFL Players’ Association, will hold a hearing to determine whether Watson violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy and whether to impose discipline.
The three-time Pro Bowl quarterback agreed to settle 20 of 24 civil lawsuits for sexual misconduct but he’s still facing a significant penalty.
A person familiar with the NFL’s position told the AP last week the league is seeking a lengthy suspension for Watson.
Lawsuit targets Texans
A lawsuit alleges the Houston Texans had been told that Watson was sexually assaulting and harassing women during massage sessions, but instead of trying to stop him, the team provided him with resources to enable his actions and “turned a blind eye” to his behavior.
The lawsuit against the team was filed in Houston on Monday by one of the 24 women who had previously sued the former Texans quarterback over allegations of sexual misconduct when he played for the Texans.
In a statement, the Houston Texans said the team would “take the necessary steps to address the allegations against our organization.”