The NFL and Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson settled Thursday on an increased suspension, landing on an 11-game ban, and a $5 million fine.
Watson was originally set to serve a six-game suspension issued by arbitrator Sue L. Robinson for violating the league's personal conduct policy.
The settlement came as a surprise to many; it was reported earlier in the week that a season-long ban was in play. The league appealed Robinson's ruling to Goodell's designated representative, former New Jersey Attorney General Peter C. Harvey.
Houston attorney Tony Buzbee, who is representing women who have accused Watson of sexual assault and misconduct, had strong feelings about the settlement. He went after NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement Thursday, per Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com.
By settling this matter the way he has, Roger Goodell has proven one of two things: either his recent rhetoric was utter baloney, or his bark is much worse than his bite. My belief is that he is nothing more than a paper tiger. The message today to all victims is clear, if you believe you have been sexually assaulted by a powerful person, keep your mouth shut and go away. The NFL has certainly demonstrated that its ownership and organization doesn't care. To all sexual assault survivors, do not allow this "punishment" to deter you. Keep speaking up and speaking out. Your voice matters. You are making a difference. We stand with you.
MORE: Harsher suspension is only silver lining of Deshaun Watson case
Goodell said in explaining the settlement:
Deshaun has committed to doing the hard work on himself that is necessary for his return to the NFL. This settlement requires compliance with a professional evaluation and treatment plan, a significant fine, and a more substantial suspension. We are grateful to Judge Robinson and Peter Harvey for their effort in addressing these matters, which laid the foundation for reaching this conclusion.
Watson will be eligible for reinstatement after Week 12. His first game action with the Browns could come in Week 13 against the Texans, his former team, in Houston.
He is scheduled to make $1 million this season under the terms of his fully guaranteed $230 million contract extension. The deal's structure mitigated his losses as it anticipated a league suspension.
