As the NFL and the Cleveland Browns await word on the Deshaun Watson suspension, one thing is certain. The situation has caused tremendous stress on his teammates, according to Browns running back Kareem Hunt.
“Yeah, it’s definitely stressful for them,” Hunt said in a recent interview. “It’s tough because they’re trying to figure out what pieces they’ve got for the season and what plays they want to put it. You know, there’s different plays for Deshaun and Jacoby, different playbook, different things we can do at quarterback.”
#Browns Kareem Hunt on the team's offseason QB situation: "It's kinda crazy but the Browns are trying to find a way to win right now and it's a business so I'm just trying to do my part, come back healthy and ready to go."
— Camryn Justice (@camijustice) June 29, 2022
It’s not a question of “if” Watson will be suspended but for how long? And what are the Browns‘ immediate plans now that Baker Mayfield has made it known he will not play for the Browns at all under any circumstance?
Deshaun Watson hearing continues into Day 3. NFL remains adamant about indefinite suspension that keeps him off the field this season. https://t.co/zyqpSRWPkq
— Rob Maaddi (@RobMaaddi) June 30, 2022
Most NFL experts expect Watson to serve at least a year because of his actions despite never being criminally charged in his sexual assault cases. He still faced several civil suits and rumors of more to come down the line, which is why many think the NFL is reluctant to make a final decision on his future in the league.
As Deshaun Watson's hearing moves forward, one of the greatest strongholds in collective bargaining rises to the forefront: Roger Goodell's Article 46 appeal power. Goodell has full and final say in appeals, something significantly limiting the power of the NFLPA.
— Alicia Jessop (@RulingSports) June 30, 2022
The Browns find themselves in a pickle at quarterback until they get the final word from the league.
