On Tuesday afternoon, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell spoke with the media about a multitude of different topics.
During his media availability, Goodell was asked about Deshaun Watson and a potential suspension for the newest quarterback in the AFC North. He said there is still “no timetable” for a decision.
The Cleveland Browns quarterback still faces a civil case after being sued by 22 women for alleged sexual misconduct. Despite the serious allegations, Goodell announced that Watson will NOT be played on the commissioner’s exempt list.
In fact, Goodell won’t be handing down the punishment for Watson at all. According to a report from Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports, an impartial arbitrator will make the decision.
Here’s more, via Yahoo Sports:
According to a source familiar with the league’s process under the new CBA, that decision is expected to be placed in the hands of former U.S. District Court Judge Sue Robinson, who has been chosen by the NFL and NFL Players Association to act as an impartial arbitrator in disciplinary cases like Watson’s. Goodell briefly referenced the policy change Tuesday while he was discussing the Watson probe during his closing remarks at the league’s annual spring meetings.
Earlier this week, NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported the latest on a potential suspension involving Watson.
“Making sure you have all the information before weighing in is something that is really significant,” Rapoport told McAfee. “Everyone wants to know right now how long is he going to be suspended. Is it going to be four games, six games, eight games, no games? Those are all basically the possibilities.”
A suspension seems likely. However, until the punishment is announced, anything is possible.
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