The Cleveland Browns are facing accusations of leaking information about quarterback Deshaun Watson’s latest sexual assault allegations in an attempt to terminate his contract. Prominent national podcaster Dan LeBatard made the claims on his show, suggesting that the team is trying to create a path to void the remaining three years and $100-plus million on Watson’s deal.
LeBatard, who has been critical of the Browns’ handling of Watson’s situation in the past, stated that the team’s actions are “pretty gross.” He and his former executive producer Mike Ryan Ruiz have been vocal about their disapproval of the Browns’ decision to sign Watson to a $230 million contract despite the numerous allegations of sexual misconduct against him.
The latest allegations against Watson are extremely graphic and were filed in a lawsuit on Monday. The Browns have been accused of leaking information about the allegations in an attempt to sway public opinion and create a justification for terminating Watson’s contract.
This move is seen as hypocritical by many, as the Browns were willing to overlook Watson’s past allegations when they signed him. Now, it seems that the team is trying to distance themselves from the quarterback and avoid paying out the remainder of his contract.
The Browns’ actions have sparked outrage and criticism from many in the sports world. LeBatard and Ruiz are not alone in their condemnation of the team’s handling of the situation.
Watson has started just 13 games for the Browns since joining the team in March 2022 and has been a below-average player by any metric. His performance against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1 was particularly disappointing, with just 169 yards and two interceptions in a blowout home loss.
The Browns’ decision to sign Watson was widely criticized at the time, and it seems that the team is now trying to find a way to escape the contract. However, the manner in which they are going about it is raising even more questions about the team’s integrity and values.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Browns will handle the allegations against Watson and whether they will be able to terminate his contract. One thing is certain, however – the team’s actions have sparked a heated debate about accountability, hypocrisy, and the NFL’s handling of player misconduct.
