Dan Le Batard has raised questions about the timing of a new sexual assault lawsuit filed against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson. The latest legal claim came just one day after Watson’s poor performance in the Browns’ 33-17 loss to the Cowboys, prompting Le Batard to question whether someone within the Browns organization might be using the situation to their advantage.
Dan Le Batard floats theory that Browns leaked new Deshaun Watson sexual assault allegations: Dan Le Batard thinks the timing of the latest Deshaun Watson sexual assault lawsuit is a little too convenient for the Browns. https://t.co/ERZsmdDxHu #BreakingNews pic.twitter.com/oDxfG8WejJ
— ZBreakingNewz (@ZBreakingNewz) September 11, 2024
Watson, who had settled 23 of 24 previous civil lawsuits involving sexual assault allegations in 2022, has struggled significantly on the field since joining the Browns. His subpar play has led to whispers of dissatisfaction within the organization, despite the hefty price tag of his fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract.
On his show, Le Batard theorized that the Browns could be looking for a way to break free from the massive contract. He noted how quickly news of the latest lawsuit broke, suggesting it could be part of a larger strategy. “The finances of this are so cold and awful that you’re now like, oh, the Browns are going to try and see if they can sneak away from everything,” Le Batard remarked, pointing to the financial burden the team faces due to Watson’s declining performance.
Watson’s deal includes specific language that could potentially void parts of his contract if it’s discovered that he failed to disclose any legal issues before signing. According to a report by Pro Football Talk, paragraph 42 of his contract requires that Watson not be involved in any undisclosed felonies or misconduct that could lead to charges or convictions. If the Browns can prove that Watson did not disclose the latest lawsuit, it could give them grounds to void part of his guaranteed money.
However, attempting to break the contract would not be easy. Watson is still owed $92 million in guaranteed money, and cutting him would result in a massive $172.77 million cap hit in dead money for the Browns. Despite these challenges, Le Batard believes the organization might be trying to lay the groundwork for an exit strategy.
Watson’s struggles on the field have fueled speculation that the Browns may consider other options at quarterback. After just one game in Week 1, some fans even called for Jameis Winston to replace him. Watson, once a standout quarterback at Clemson and a potential MVP contender with the Houston Texans, has failed to regain his form since the allegations surfaced.
Dan Le Batard suggests that the Cleveland Browns had a hand in the leaking of the new civil lawsuit Deshaun Watson is facing for sexual assault and battery, as a way out from Watson’s five-year $230 million contract that he signed in 2022. @DanLeBatardShow#NFL #Cleveland #Browns pic.twitter.com/wxfIFtMy8x
— Sportskeeda Pro Football (@SKProFootball) September 11, 2024
While it’s uncertain what the future holds for Watson and the Browns, the latest lawsuit has reignited discussions about his off-field issues and their potential impact on his tenure in Cleveland. Le Batard’s comments have added fuel to the speculation that the team may be searching for a way to cut ties with their embattled quarterback.
Key Points:
i. Dan Le Batard questions the timing of a new lawsuit against Deshaun Watson, suggesting someone within the Browns may be trying to undermine him.
ii. Watson’s massive $230 million contract could be in jeopardy if it’s proven he didn’t disclose the latest legal claim.
iii. The Browns face financial challenges, with Watson still owed $92 million in guaranteed money and a potential $172.77 million cap hit if they cut him.
iv. Watson’s struggles on the field have led to fan calls for backup Jameis Winston to replace him after Week 1.
v. Watson’s legal troubles and poor performance are causing speculation about his future with the Browns.
Charles William III – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
