The final two civil lawsuits filed against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson, alleging sexual misconduct, have been officially dismissed. This development marks the conclusion of all known legal claims filed against Watson in relation to accusations of inappropriate behavior during massage therapy sessions.
According to court documents and legal representatives, at least one of the cases was dismissed following a settlement between Watson and the plaintiff. Details of the settlement, including terms and any financial compensation, were not made public. The other case was dismissed with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled.
These remaining lawsuits were part of a broader set of civil actions filed in 2021 and 2022 against Watson by multiple women, most of whom were massage therapists. In total, more than 20 women had brought forth accusations. Throughout the legal process, Watson’s legal team maintained his innocence and denied any criminal wrongdoing.
No criminal charges were ever filed against Watson after multiple grand juries in Texas declined to indict him based on the allegations presented.
The NFL conducted its own investigation into the matter and in 2022 suspended Watson for 11 games for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. He was also fined $5 million and required to undergo a professional evaluation and follow a treatment program. The suspension and associated penalties were part of a settlement between the league and the NFL Players Association.
Watson returned to the field for the Browns during the latter part of the 2022 season. Since then, he has continued as Cleveland’s starting quarterback. The resolution of these final lawsuits may offer both the team and player an opportunity to focus fully on the football season ahead, although public scrutiny regarding the original allegations remains.
Neither Watson nor his legal representatives issued a detailed public statement following the dismissals.
With all legal actions now resolved, attention is likely to shift back to Watson’s performance on the field and his role with the Browns going forward.
