In a stunning turn of events, Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson finds himself at the center of serious allegations of sexual assault, yet is still scheduled to take the field this Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Despite the disturbing accusations against Watson, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski made it clear on Wednesday morning that the team has no intention of benching their star quarterback. This decision comes in the wake of a lawsuit filed in a Houston court on Monday, where a woman accused Watson of sexual assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
“Regarding Deshaun’s legal situation, we put out a statement yesterday,” Stefanski stated. “I won’t have much to add past that statement. We’ll let due process play out.”
Watson’s attorney, Rusty Hardin, also made a public statement on Wednesday, vehemently denying the allegations on behalf of his client. “We have asked him not to comment further while this matter works its way through the courts, but are comfortable he will ultimately be vindicated,” the statement read.
In a report by Scott Petrak of The Chronicle-Telegram and The Medina Gazette, Watson’s legal team emphasized their readiness to defend the case in court when the time comes, but made it clear they will not engage in media defense. They requested for patience as the legal process unfolds.
Despite the off-field turmoil, Watson’s performance on the field has been lackluster as well. In the Browns’ recent 33-17 defeat against the Dallas Cowboys, Watson struggled with just one touchdown and two interceptions.
The upcoming game against the Jaguars will be a test for both Watson and the Browns organization, as they navigate through this challenging situation both on and off the field. It remains to be seen how this controversy will impact the team moving forward, but one thing is certain – all eyes will be on Deshaun Watson come Sunday.
