Deshaun Watson Settles 20 Of 24 Suits Alleging Sexual Misconduct

Topline

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has settled 20 of the 24 lawsuits brought against him alleging sexual harassment and assault while receiving massages while he played for the Houston Texans, according to a statement from attorney Tony Buzbee, who represents the female massage therapists who brought the litigation.

Key Facts

Ashley Solis, the first woman to sue Watson, is one of the four who have not agreed to settle.

Buzbee did not disclose the particulars of the settlement, including how much Watson is paying.

KEY BACKGROUND

Solis accused Watson of sexually harassing her during a March 30, 2020, appointment. Grand juries in Brazoria County, Texas, and Harris County, Texas, refused to indict him. The NFL says it has concluded its investigation into Watson and could announce the results soon.

BIG NUMBER

$230 million. That’s how much Watson is guaranteed to receive over the course of five years in the contract he signed this winter with the Cleveland Browns, the largest in history.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

Two new women have filed lawsuits against Watson in recent weeks, the New York Times reported.

FURTHER READING

The Deshaun Watson Era In Cleveland Has Begun — Sort Of (Forbes)

What to Know About the Assault Lawsuits Against Deshaun Watson (New York Times)