Deshaun Watson: NFL ends investigation into sexual assault allegations against Cleveland Browns quarterback | NFL News

The NFL has ended its investigation into the latest sexual assault lawsuit against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson.

Watson, who served an 11-game suspension in 2022was accused of assault in Texas by woman in September. She sought more than $1 million in damages before the parties reached a confidential settlement.

The 29-year-old strongly denied the allegations through his attorney, Rusty Hardin, while the league spent several months reviewing the case to determine whether Watson should be punished.

“The matter is closed,” league spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email to The Associated Press on Friday. “There was insufficient evidence to support the finding of a violation of the Personal Conduct Policy.”

Sky Sports News has reached out to the NFL for comment, with Watson now cleared of any potential fines or suspensions over the latest allegations.

What future for Watson?

Watson suffered a season-ending ruptured Achilles tendon in October, leaving him to finish the campaign on injured reserve for the second straight year, but he rehabbed in hopes of returning the season next.

The Browns still owe Watson $46 million for each of the next two seasons after trading three first-round picks to Houston and signing him to a fully guaranteed, five-year, $230 million contract that backfired.

Watson only played 19 games in three seasons due to suspension and injuries. He was acquired by the Browns, who were comfortable with his character despite Watson being accused of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage therapy sessions while playing for the Texans.

Although he is in the clear with the league, Watson's future with Cleveland is not as certain. His massive contract – and its salary cap ramifications – has put the Browns in a bind in terms of improving their roster.

Cleveland had a disappointing season after making the playoffs a year ago and could move on from Watson, but the cost would be significant if the team just released him.

The Browns signed Jameis Winston for one season to be Watson's backup. Winston is 2-3 as a starter since taking over and has brought some life to Cleveland's offense, which didn't score 20 points or gain 300 yards with Watson before his injury.

Winston indicated he would return and could be a viable option as a starter, even if the Browns drafted a young QB.