Browns' Deshaun Watson willing to accept more significant suspension from NFL ahead preseason debut: report

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Deshaun Watson will take the field for the first time since 2020 when he makes his debut for the Cleveland Brown’s preseason exhibition on Friday night, but with an appeal of his six-game suspension still looming, Watson is willing to meet the NFL somewhere in the middle, according to one report. 

The NFL was initially seeking at least a one-year suspension for the former Houston Texans quarterback after 24 women accused him of sexual assault; however, an independent disciplinary officer, jointly appointed by the league and the NFLPA, settled on a six-game suspension with no fine. 

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson takes part in drills during the NFL football team's training camp, Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, in Berea, Ohio. (AP Photo/Nick Cammett)

Now, as the NFL appeals that decision over evidence that commissioner Roger Goodell said proved "predatory behavior" from Watson, the embattled quarterback is willing to agree to a more significant punishment. 

DESHAUN WATSON’S SUSPENSION EXPLAINED IN DISCIPLINARY OFFICER’S 16-PAGE REPORT

A person familiar with Watson’s defense told The Associated Press Thursday that he would accept an eight-game suspension and $5 million fine to avoid missing the entire season. 

It remains unclear if the league would be willing to compromise. Goodell maintained during Tuesday’s owner meetings that the evidence evaluated by retired Judge Sue L. Robinson was "very clear" in describing the basis of Watson’s case. 

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson, center, takes part in drills during the NFL football team's training camp, Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, in Berea, Ohio. (AP Photo/Nick Cammett)

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