Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will have to sit out 11 games in 2022 as part of his punishment for violating the league’s player conduct policy.
His infractions stemmed from the 24 civil cases of sexual misconduct filed against him.
Former federal judge Sue Robinson initially recommended a six-game suspension for Watson.
But after some talks, the count was increased to 11 games and Watson also receives a $5 million penalty.
Counting the additional donations from the NFL and the Browns, the $7 million will be used for organizations that seek to prevent sexual misconduct and sexual assault.
In terms of the timetable, Watson will have to count the 11 games from August 30, the league’s roster cutdown day for this season.
He can conduct limited activities starting October 10 and join full practices by November 14.
Meanwhile, NFL insider Albert Breer took note of the familiar foe that Watson will compete against once he returns to the field on December 4.
Browns QB Deshaun Watson’s 11-game, $5 million penalty (plus counseling), was a result of a settlement talks between the league and union and is final. NFL was insistent on a fine and treatment, they get it here.
Watson’s first game back … Week 13 in Houston. https://t.co/O3GfJquKGQ
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) August 18, 2022
Watson will face his former team, the Houston Texans, in Week 13 of the 2022 season.
He spent five seasons with the Texans but sat out the entire 2021 season.
The Texans made the former Clemson standout the 12th overall selection in the 2017 NFL Draft.
It was with the Texans that Watson became a three-time Pro Bowler and a one-time passing yards leader.
The Old And The New
If Watson will be the Browns’ starter in that game, he will likely face quarterback Davis Mills.
The quarterback from Stanford turned heads during his rookie season and he looks to build on the momentum he gained in 2021.
When that happens, it will be an intriguing matchup between the previous starter and the current one.
But if his performance in the preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars was any indication, Watson has a long way to go before he returns to game shape.
NEXT: NFL World Reacts To The Deshaun Watson News