CLEVELAND — With Deshaun Watson's disciplinary hearing with the NFL having concluded late last week, both sides are currently waiting for the arbiter, former U.S. District Judge Sue L. Robinson, to render a decision.
But while the possibility exists that Watson and the NFL could reach a settlement on a suspension before then, according to a new report from Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio, those talks aren't currently taking place.
Citing multiple sources, Florio reported that when it comes to negotiations between the NFL and Watson, "currently there are no talks." The NFL entered last week's disciplinary hearing recommending that the Cleveland Browns quarterback serve an indefinite suspension lasting no less than one year after several women have accused him of sexual misconduct, including harassment and assault.
But while the league has recommended at least a year-long suspension for Watson -- who has not been criminally charged as a result of the accusations -- it is up to Robinson to issue a ruling on whether or not the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback violated the league's personal conduct policy, and if so, how long he'll be suspended for. Should Robinson issue a punishment, either side can make an appeal, which would then be heard by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell or his designee (an appeal cannot be made if no punishment is issued).
With the possibility that Robinson doesn't issue a punishment for Watson and the NFL essentially having the ability to overrule any punishment she does make, many have theorized that both sides would be best served to reach a settlement on a suspension. Earlier this week, ESPN's Dan Graziano said on ESPN Radio's 'KJM' that the league had discussed the possibility of an indefinite suspension with the ability to apply for reinstatement after 12 games -- an offer that Watson's side apparently wasn't interested in.
"Those talks could still pick up at any point," Graziano said. "It's possible they could come to a settlement and avoid it going to a decision from the discipline officer. But they weren't able to come close enough late last week."
