BEREA, Ohio (92.3 The Fan) – Deshaun Watson ran onto the field Saturday afternoon to a round of applause and cheers from fans.
Watson, who has a potential suspension from the NFL hovering over him, waved to the crowd as he jogged to the end of the field and then back to begin warming up for practice with his fellow quarterbacks.
Two hours later, Watson patiently worked his way through a long line of fans where he signed dozens of autographs, took pictures and selfies, and even played a game of rock-paper-scissors with three young fans for each of his cleats and a practice shirt, which he autographed for them.
No one would know that Watson and the Browns are anxiously awaiting a ruling from Sue L. Robinson concerning allegations made against him by 24 female massage therapists in civil court alleging sexual misconduct during treatment sessions and whether they constitute a violation of the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
Watson, who has denied any wrongdoing, settled 20 of the cases with four more set for trial next spring barring settlements before then.
Two grand juries in Texas declined to charge Watson with any crime stemming from those allegations and criminal complaints that were made against him.
A ruling from Robinson could come next week according to the Associated Press.
The Browns acquired Watson from the Texans in March for six draft picks and gave the three-time Pro Bowler a fully guaranteed $230 million contract drawing mixed reactions from fans due to the allegations made against him.
Some fans were offended the Browns would acquire a player with those type of accusations levied against him and even swore off rooting for the team again.
Saturday afternoon, the stands were mostly full, and fans greeted Watson enthusiastically after practice with smiles as they sought a signature from the new franchise quarterback who led the NFL in passing during the 2020 season.
They’re hoping they won’t have to wait long to see Watson on gameday, but Robinson has yet to decide when that will be.
