Browns express confidence in Deshaun Watson despite lawsuits over sex assault claims

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The Cleveland Browns defended their decision to acquire Deshaun Watson while he faces nearly two dozen lawsuits accusing him of sexual assault as the trade with the Houston Texans was announced Sunday.

The Browns acquired Watson and a 2024 fifth-round draft pick from the Houston Texans for several draft picks, including a 2022 first-rounder, 2023 first- and third-rounders and 2024 first- and fourth-rounders.

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Deshaun Watson of the Houston Texans in action against the Tennessee Titans during a game at NRG Stadium Jan. 3, 2021, in Houston. (Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)

Browns team owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam, general manager Andrew Berry and coach Kevin Stefanski all released statements explaining why the organization would trade and give up so much for Watson, who is still in the middle of the suits and under investigation by the NFL over the accusations.

"We spent a tremendous amount of time exploring and investigating the opportunity to trade for Deshaun Watson," the Haslams said. "We are acutely aware and empathetic to the highly personal sentiments expressed about this decision. 

"Our team’s comprehensive evaluation process was of utmost importance due to the sensitive nature of his situation and the complex factors involved. We also understand there are still some legal proceedings that are ongoing, and we will respect due process.

NOT INDICTED, WHAT'S NEXT FOR DESHAUN WATSON?

"It was pivotal that we, along with Andrew Berry and Kevin Stefanski, meet with Deshaun to have a straightforward dialogue, discuss our priorities and hear directly from him on how he wants to approach his career