The NFL and the camp of Deshaun Watson will have another opportunity to build their case regarding the potential suspension of the Cleveland Browns quarterback.
NFL Network national insider Ian Rapoport revealed that the hearing will go to a third day before former federal judge Sue Robinson bestows a verdict.
In connection with that update, CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson shared a possible sequence for the proceedings.
After the 2nd day of Deshaun Watson's hearing a league source reminds that Sue Robinson won't deliver a ruling on the spot–That hearings will finish then there'll likely be post-hearing submissions & then a decision. Source not currently expecting hearing to last past this week.
— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) June 29, 2022
Anderson tweeted, “After the 2nd day of Deshaun Watson’s hearing a league source reminds that Sue Robinson won’t deliver a ruling on the spot–That hearings will finish then there’ll likely be post-hearing submissions & then a decision. Source not currently expecting hearing to last past this week.”
The deliberations for this case could also take days, if not weeks.
However, they are targeting to hand a decision before training camp starts.
The Arguments Of Both Sides
The league is pushing for an indefinite suspension for Watson for multiple violations of the conduct policy.
If granted, the Pro Bowl quarterback could sit out the entire 2022 and parts of the 2023 seasons.
To build their case, they are presenting the stories of five of the women who filed charges against Watson.
These individuals agreed to take part in this case and the NFL has interviewed four of them.
Meanwhile, Watson’s camp, through the help of the NFL Players Association, is pushing for a reduction of Watson’s suspension.
For that, they have sought the assistance of Jeffrey Kessler who has worked with Tom Brady during the Deflategate issue.
Kessler will argue on Watson’s behalf based on precedents established by the league.
If Robinson decides in their favor, there’s a chance that Watson could already play in Week 1 of the 2022 season.
On the contrary, Watson can appeal the decision if an indefinite suspension is upheld.
NEXT: NFL Insider Details Day 2 Of The Deshaun Watson Hearing