Deshaun Watson Suspended 11 Games, Fined $5 Mil, But QB Says He's Innocent

Despite saying in a statement earlier in the day that he takes accountability for his actions, he spoke to the media for the first time since the suspension was announced.

He said he was willing to accept the suspension to put the situation behind him.

"I'm very appreciative of the tremendous support I have received throughout my short time with the Cleveland organization, and I'm grateful that the discipline process has ended," he said in a statement.

He apologized for any pain the situation has caused. I take responsibility for my actions.

While I'm away from the team, my focus is on becoming the best version of myself on and off the field. I'm looking forward to the future in Cleveland.

The owners of the ClevelandBrowns announced they will invest in programs in Northeast Ohio to educate children on the awareness, understanding and Prevention of Sexual Misconduct.

The quarterback has been suspended 11 games for reaching a settlement with the league.

According to the league, the new punishment includes a longer ban and a $5 million fine. The player will follow a treatment program and undergo a professional evaluation by behavioral experts.

"Deshaun has committed to doing the hard work on himself that is necessary for his return to the NFL," Roger said in a statement.

Compliance with a professional evaluation and treatment plan is one of the requirements of the settlement.

He said that. The foundation for reaching this conclusion was laid by Judge Robinson and Peter Harvey.

The retired Judge Sue Robinson spent several days investigating the claims made against him and suspended him for six games.

The league didn't like Robinson's ruling and appealed the 6 game ban to be harsher.

Deshaun's behavior was called "egregious" and "predatory" by the commissioner.

It was predatory behavior and there were multiple violations. We always felt that those were important for us to address in a responsible way.

The league was able to appeal Judge Robinson's ruling thanks to the collective bargaining agreement with the players association.

Two parties had the right in the CBA. Both parties could challenge and appeal that, and that was something we thought was our right to do.

After the settlement, it's clear that Peter C. Harvey won't be needed anymore.

The quarterback was booed by the Jacksonville crowd when he took the field for the game.

Deshaun will be able to return against his former team in the 13th week of the season.

The story was originally published at 8:56 AM.