Cleveland Browns defend Deshaun Watson signing, say they conducted 'comprehensive evaluation'

By Ben Morse, CNN

Updated 0905 GMT (1705 HKT) March 21, 2022

Deshaun Watson participates in warmups prior to a game against the Tennessee Titans at NRG Stadium on January 3, 2021.

(CNN)The Cleveland Browns have defended their signing of embattled quarterback Deshaun Watson, saying they carried out a «comprehensive evaluation» beforehand.

The trade of 26-year-old Watson from the Houston Texans was confirmed on Sunday. The quarterback heads to Cleveland along with a fifth round draft pick, while the Texans receive three first round picks, a third round pick and a fourth round pick. According to NFL.com, Watson told the Texans he is willing to waive his no-trade clause for the move and will reportedly receive a five-year, fully guaranteed $230 million contract from the Browns. It would be the highest guaranteed money given to an NFL player, according to ESPN.Last week, a Harris County grand jury declined to charge Watson over allegations of harassment and sexual misconduct. Watson still faces 22 civil lawsuits, many of them alleging sexual assault and misconduct.The NFL is also investigating the accusations and if Watson is found to have violated league rules, he likely would be suspended.Read MoreNews of Watson's trade and signing led to a swell of backlash from fans, primarily on social media, directed at the Browns hierarchy, with some saying it marks the end of their fandom with the team. However, in the statement announcing the details of Watson's trade, Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam said the team had done a «comprehensive evaluation» before signing off on it, with the general manager saying they had completed «extensive investigative, legal and reference work.»«We are acutely aware and empathetic to the highly