Deshaun Watson has a high mountain to climb when it comes to trying to argue how many games he should be suspended for during the upcoming season.
Over a 17-month period according to the New York Times, Watson reached out to over 66 women for massage sessions. That damning report does not help his case with the NFL.
CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson reported that Watson’s legal team will argue for a zero game suspension.
Adding, “I’m told in order to counter the indefinite suspension of at least a year that the NFL is reportedly seeking, Deshaun Watson’s counsel will tactically reason for 0 games missed. There is belief the open-ended suspension was leaked to still effort a settlement before a decision from hearing officer Sue Robinson, …”
In their defense, the NFLPA may use the lack of punishment for New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft as precedence. The NFL is reportedly pushing for at least a year suspension while the NFLPA will defend the quarterback.
Once independent arbitrator Sue Robinson rules, the NFL or NFLPA are able to appeal the ruling only if she deems that Watson violated the league’s conduct policy. If she rules that he did not, the issue is closed. If either side appeals, Goodell is in a position to hear that appeal and make the final decision.
