CLEVELAND — Legal Analysis: The latest sexual assault lawsuit against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has been settled, with confidential terms.
Legally speaking, this raises the question of what's to come of an NFL investigation into these new allegations.
The lawsuit said that while on a date with a woman referred to as Jane Doe, Watson came to her home, exposed himself, asked for a massage and sexually assaulted her, before she broke away and could get him to leave.
The incident was said to have happened in October of 2020, while Watson was playing for the Houston Texans.
Previously, Watson's attorney Rusty Hardin said that "Deshaun strongly denies the allegations in the Jane Doe lawsuit."
Now, Hardin has confirmed to 3News that the case has been resolved. He did not answer questions I asked about a reported NFL investigation into the claims.
Prior to settling the case, Jane Doe's attorney, Tony Buzbee, said there was video related to the lawsuit and that his client would be available to speak with NFL investigators. It's possible the terms of the settlement would prevent her from sharing her story with the NFL, if she hasn't shared it already.
I asked the NFL for an update on the status of the investigation and am waiting to hear back. Whether it's still ongoing is a question on the minds of many Browns fans, who wonder if another suspension could open the door for the Browns to part ways with Watson.
He started his Browns career with an 11-game suspension and a $5 million fine tied to claims of sexual misconduct during massage appointments. He's already settled 23 other lawsuits related to those claims.
Right now, Watson's contract with the Browns runs through the 2026 season with $92 million in guaranteed money, despite the team getting off to a 1-4 start this year.
I reached out to the Browns to ask what any NFL investigation might mean for Watson's remaining time in Cleveland, and haven't heard back yet.
Stephanie Haney is licensed to practice law in both Ohio and California.
The information in this article and video is provided for general informational purposes only. None of the information in this article and video is offered, nor should it be construed, as legal advice on any matter.