Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has received an 11-game suspension and US$5 million (NZ$8 million) fine for off-field conduct violations related to "predatory" behaviour involving more than two dozen women, who alleged sexual assault and other inappropriate behaviour.
Watson, represented by the NFLPA, and the NFL settled on the punishment, after the league appealed an initial six-game suspension that was rendered from an investigation into the allegations.
The NFL will confirm compliance with the agreement. Watson is first eligible for reinstatement on November 28.
"Deshaun has committed to doing the hard work on himself that is necessary for his return to the NFL," said commissioner Roger Goodell. "This settlement requires compliance with a professional evaluation and treatment plan, a significant fine and a more substantial suspension.
"We are grateful to Judge [Sue L] Robinson and Peter Harvey for their efforts in addressing these matters, which laid the foundation for reaching this conclusion."
Goodell says the NFL and Browns will each donate US$1 million (NZ$1.6 million) to create a new fund "that will support the work of non-profit organisations across the country that educate young people on healthy relationships, promote education and prevention of sexual misconduct and assault, support survivors, and related causes".
Watson, 26, says he is ready to move forward with his career.
"I've always been able to stand on my innocence, and always said I never assaulted or disrespected anyone," Watson said. "But at the same point, I have to continue to push forward with my life and career."
Watson recently offered an apology "to all of the women that I have impacted in this situation", but previously maintained that he had "no regrets" about his actions during massage sessions, where the alleged wrongdoing took place.
"I'm grateful that the disciplinary process has ended and extremely appreciative of the tremendous support I have received throughout my short time with the Browns organisation," said Watson.
"I apologise once again for any pain this situation has caused. I take accountability for the decisions I made.
"My focus going forward is on working to become the best version of myself on and off the field, and supporting my teammates however possible, while I'm away from the team. I'm excited about what the future holds for me in Cleveland."
Reuters
