Roger Goodell Calls Deshaun Watson a "Policy Violation?" - Threatens Discipline

Goodell Addresses Watson Civil Charges

Rodger Goodell addressed the media on Monday, and  asked about the future of Deshaun Watson for the 2022-2023 season. Watson moved past the criminal charges, however there are still civil charges facing Watson. Furthermore, Goodell went on to outline the NFL’s plans for the next steps regarding Watson.

Dec 9, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell looks on prior to the game between the Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Is Deshaun Watson a Policy Violation?

Goodell went on to explain the NFL seeks to understand how Watson’s behaviors are related to the personal conduct policy. They will make a decision once the investigation of the current civil charges has taken place. Additionally, Watson will receive league discipline if found in violation.

Commissioner’s Exempt List?

Dan Graziano (ESPN) reported on Monday:

“Asked specifically whether Watson could end up on the commissioner’s exempt list — a device the league has used in the past to impose paid leave on players under league investigation — Goodell said the lack of criminal charges makes that far less likely. That means Watson, who was traded from the Houston Texans to Cleveland earlier this month, likely will be available to the Browns as long as the league’s investigation is ongoing.”

Therefore, it looks like there is a good chance we may be seeing Watson back on the field rocking the Doo-Doo Brown!  Now, we wait on Goodell.  Oddly enough, Goodell sort of holds Baker Mayfield’s fate in his hands, too.

Where Does Baker Mayfield Fit In?

With Deshaun Watson facing possible discipline, does Baker start a few games to showcase talent?  Does he get traded early? Or, is Baker actually Deshaun’s backup for the foreseeable future? (Read our thoughts on the former Heisman winner and overall number one draft pick’s future.)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) hangs his head as he walks off the field following a 37-14 loss to the Arizona Cardinals in an NFL football game at FirstEnergy Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021, in Cleveland, Ohio. [Jeff Lange/Beacon Journal]
Browns 10

Missing the NFL?

Come check us out at DFS Army and see if we can’t teach you to win big money in the offseason, too.

Are the browns an automatic Superbowl contender now?? Put a risk free bet on them at +900 at MGM. You literally have nothing to lose!