CLEVELAND (AP) — Deshaun Watson will start Cleveland’s exhibition opener at Jacksonville while waiting to learn if the NFL will succeed in keeping him off the field much longer.
Watson is potentially facing a year-long suspension for alleged sexual misconduct.
He’s playing Friday night against the Jaguars.
It’s the quarterback’s first game since Jan. 3, 2021, his final one with the Houston Texans.
The three-time Pro Bowler sat out last season after demanding a trade and before he was accused of assault and harassment by two dozen women during massage therapy sessions in Texas.
Watson was suspended six games last week for violating the personal conduct policy, but the league wanted a tougher penalty and appealed.
An arbitrator chosen by Commissioner Roger Goodell is reviewing the case.
Still no timetable for Burrow’s return
CINCINNATI (AP) — Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is still healing from an appendectomy two weeks ago, and coach Zac Taylor said there is no timetable for his participation in training camp.
The third-year quarterback has been observing practice from a golf cart or scooter.
Burrow’s father, Jimmy Burrow, told radio analyst Dave Lapham last week that it might be a “few weeks” before his son is able to practice.
The Bengals got some good news when right tackle La’ el Collins was cleared to practice.
Taylor says few if any starters will play in the first preseason game Friday.