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Browns Owner Jimmy Haslam Reacts To Deshaun Watson Backlash

A new report suggests when the probe into sexual assault against Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson will finish

KANSAS CITY, MO - JANUARY 12: Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) warms up before an NFL Divisional round playoff game between the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs on January 12, 2020 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO. (Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire)

Deshaun Watson had his introductory press conference with the Cleveland Browns on Friday. And as expected, he was flooded with questions about the accusations of sexual assault filed by over 20 massage therapists.

To the surprise of no one, Watson maintained his innocence — claiming that he has never disrespected any woman.

Later in the press conference, Browns owner Jimmy Haslam also spoke on the process that went into trading for Deshaun Watson.

While the Browns’ brass caught flak for not speaking with the attorney who filed the lawsuits against Watson, Haslam said he went through an extensive process to get to know what Watson is all about.

“We got very comfortable with Deshaun Watson, the person,” Haslam told reporters.

Jimmy Haslam would also set some expectations for Deshaun Watson off the field.

“We expect very high performance levels on and off the field from our players, and Deshaun knows and understands that.”

Jimmy Haslam’s wife, Dee, also gave her sign-off on bringing Deshaun Watson into the organization.

“This was really hard,” she said. “This was a journey. I got more comfortable after meeting Deshaun. It took some time. It was a process on behalf of my family and our daughters for sure.”

Even though Deshaun Watson has been cleared by the criminal justice system, the NFL still has an ongoing investigation pending. And we’ll likely hear about these accusations for a long time to come.


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