This morning the independent arbitrator Susan Robinson ruled Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will be suspended for six games. She said Watson did violate the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy, however based on the evidence presented, it did not constitute an indefinite suspension nor a one-year suspension. The league now has three days to determine if they will appeal Robinsons decision. If they do, then Commissioner Roger Goodell will hear the appeal. The players union issued a statement saying they won’t appeal the Judge’s decision, but if the league adds games on the appeal, then the NFLPA will sue the NFL.
Watson can take part in training camp and play in pre-season games. After the regular season starts, he has to stay away from the facility until after week three. Watson still can’t practice with the team but can take part in meetings inside the building in Berea. The six games he will miss are at the Panthers, home against the Jets, home against the Steelers, at the Falcons, home against the Chargers and home against the Patriots. His first game back will be at the Ravens on October 23 and his first home game will be the following week against the Bengals on Halloween.
Bottom line, Judge Robinson ruled Watson did violate the PCP. Suspended him for six games based on previous cases and left the door open for further games if he violates the policy again. The league will review the decision to figure out if they’re going to appeal. Prior to today’s ruling it was announced Watson has settled three of the final four cases against him.
In other team news, RT Jack Conklin returned off the Pup list, WR Isaiah Weston was waived with an injury after hurting his knee Saturday and the Browns signed WR Derrick Dillion.
Now the Browns go into the season knowing where they stand at the quarterback position and all the Holiday Inn Express lawyers on twitter to go back to being pretend GM’s. Everyone stay safe and Go Browns.