The NFL world is waiting for the landmark decision regarding Deshaun Watson‘s fate for the 2022 season.
It’s a ruling that can shape the judgment on future cases of comparable nature.
That’s why former federal judge Sue Robinson is not rushing to a conclusion before thoroughly reviewing the arguments of both sides.
Watson’s camp, through the help of the NFL Players Association and Jeffrey Kessler, is hoping for a reduced decision that could allow him to play some games this year.
The best they are hoping for is that Robinson won’t give Watson any suspension and Kessler is doing so via precedent-based arguments.
On the other hand, the league is pushing for an indefinite suspension, forcing Watson to miss out on football this year and possibly a few games next season.
CBS Sports’ NFL insider Josina Anderson shares more details on how the NFL is building its argument.
I’m told there are only 4 women currently "at issue" in the Deshaun Watson proceeding. The NFL concluded not to pursue 8 of 12 women interviewed. Re: a "5th" woman, the league tried to pursue, but never interviewed her. The league’s scope is currently* limited to 4, per source.
— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) July 11, 2022
Anderson tweeted, “I’m told there are only 4 women currently ‘at issue’ in the Deshaun Watson proceeding. The NFL concluded not to pursue 8 of 12 women interviewed. Re: a ‘5th’ woman, the league tried to pursue but never interviewed her. The league’s scope is currently* limited to 4, per source.”
Just like any other case, having more complainants makes the case stronger.
Therefore, the league could benefit from having more participants in their cause.
The Ruling Will Take A While To Be Finalized
In a previous tweet, Anderson also shared that Robinson will bestow her judgment after reviewing the arguments of both sides.
Given the NFL offseason’s timeline, Watson’s fate will be known before or during training camp.
That estimate gives his camp time to appeal the ruling if it doesn’t go his way.
Watson might accept a sentence of anything less than an entire season.
That way, he will have more time to prepare for his return after also sitting out the entire 2021 season.
NEXT: NFL Analyst Shares Key Point About The Deshaun Watson Investigation