Browns' Deshaun Watson, NFL settle on 11-game suspension

Deshaun Watson has reached a settlement with the NFL and will serve an 11-game suspension and pay a $5 million US fine rather than risk missing his first season as quarterback of the Cleveland Browns following accusations of sexual misconduct.

Watson was accused of sexual assault and harassment by two dozen women while he played for the Houston Texans. The league had sought to ban him for at least one year for violating its personal conduct policy.

"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 organization. I apologize once again for any pain this situation has caused. I take accountability for the decisions I made," Watson said in a statement released through the team. "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."

Asked later if he thinks the settlement is fair, Watson said: "I'm going to keep my opinion to myself."

The settlement ends months of posturing between Watson's legal team, the NFL and NFL Players Association.

As part of the settlement, Watson may return for the Browns' game on Dec. 4 in Houston.

"As we have previously conveyed, Deshaun and his representatives have abided by the NFL and NFLPA structure awaiting a final decision and we have respected the process," team owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam said in a statement. "Now that a decision on discipline has been reached, we understand this is a real opportunity to create meaningful change and we are committed to investing in programs in Northeast Ohio that will educate our youth regarding awareness, understanding, and most