Two remaining lawsuits against Watson dismissed, ending legal battles with allegations of misconduct
Deshaun Watson has successfully resolved two remaining lawsuits against him, marking a significant development in his ongoing legal saga.
Why it matters: The dismissal of these lawsuits with prejudice means they cannot be refiled, potentially allowing Watson to focus on his football career without the shadow of these allegations looming over him.
- A total of 27 lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct had been filed against Watson since March 2021.
- This resolution comes after a turbulent period that included an 11-game suspension during the 2022 NFL season due to similar allegations.
What’s new: Two lawsuits were dismissed just before key trial dates, indicating progress in Watson's efforts to clear his name.
- One case was set to go to trial on February 18, while another was scheduled for March 30.
- Notably, attorney Tony Buzbee confirmed the settlements but offered little detail, stating, "We reached a settlement. That's all I can say about it, and all that needs to be said."
The big picture: While Watson's legal troubles may be lessening, questions remain regarding his standing within the league and among fans.
- He served an 11-game suspension and faced a $5 million fine as part of his reinstatement process, which involved evaluations by behavioral experts.
- Watson's future performance will be under close scrutiny, especially given his high-profile trade to the Cleveland Browns from the Houston Texans.
Yes, but: The fallout from these allegations is likely to affect Watson's reputation and the perception of the Browns moving forward.
- Even with legal issues being addressed, public backlash remains a possibility, particularly from advocacy groups focused on issues of sexual misconduct.
- Watson's past conduct could overshadow his athletic achievements and contributions on the field.
What to watch: As Watson moves past these legal challenges, his on-field performance will determine how he is received by fans and analysts alike.
- A torn right Achilles injury sustained in October 2024 further complicates his immediate return to form, sidelining him for the entirety of the 2025 season.
- How Watson adapts to the pressure of returning to play—and whether he can reclaim his status as an elite quarterback—will be closely monitored in the upcoming seasons.
The bottom line: With litigation behind him, Deshaun Watson now faces the dual challenge of winning back fan trust and proving himself on the field, amid lingering skepticism surrounding his character and decisions.
