Browns: How long does the NFL want to suspend Deshaun Watson?
The NFL will appeal the six-game Deshaun Watson suspension as they believe it was too lenient, but how long do they want the Browns QB out for?
Judge Sue L. Robinson issued her decision regarding the Deshaun Watson suspension earlier this week, ruling that the Cleveland Browns quarterback will be held out for the first six games of the 2022 season. However, the NFL is now taking steps to see that lengthened.
On Wednesday, the NFL filed an appeal in which they will look to increase the length of the suspension.
NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport tweeted out a PR release that further explains what is happening regarding the appeal, the short of it being that the league can’t appeal the factual findings of the appointed judge (Robinson in this case) but they are able to appeal the disciplinary decision, which is what they’re doing.
From @NFLprguy https://t.co/cL44rn67Ii pic.twitter.com/FS34NjrU4c
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 3, 2022
As noted, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will appoint who will hear the appeal. But the question that is more pressing is how long of a suspension the league is seeking for Deshaun Watson.
Deshaun Watson suspension: How long does NFL want to suspend QB?
Aaron Wilson of Pro Football Network and formerly of The Houston Chronicle reported soon after news of the appeal that the NFL is seeking a full season suspension for the Browns quarterback. Specifically, per Jeff Darlington, they want an indefinite suspension with a minimum of one year.
NFL is expected to pursue a significant increase in punishment of Deshaun Watson, with some league sources predicting they will seek to suspend him for the entire season, per league sources.
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) August 3, 2022
I'm told NFL is appealing for an indefinite suspension that would be a minimum of one year. But perhaps more significant given the structure of Watson's contract, source tells me the NFL's appeal will also include a monetary fine. Money is now a significant part of the equation.
— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) August 3, 2022
There was a rightful public outcry over the initial ruling of six games for Watson’s suspension and reports had indicated that the league was pushing for something in the ballpark of a season-long suspension from the beginning, so their decision to appeal doesn’t come as much of a surprise.
Regardless, this is far from over. These proceedings could eventually lead to federal court depending on how the appeal transpires. And if it does lead to that point, there is a chance that Watson could suit up for the Browns in Week 1 against Baker Mayfield and the Panthers.
The question I’m getting a ton: If Deshaun Watson’s side sues the #NFL in federal court, can Watson play in Week 1?
— Noah Weiskopf (@BrownsWithNoah) August 3, 2022
The short answer is YES. The NFLPA can file for a temporary restraining order that would keep Watson on the field until that court case is complete. #Browns
Stay tuned, because this definitely isn’t the last that will come from this situation.
Next. Deshaun Watson update: NFL makes the right call after weak suspension decision. dark