Cleveland Browns QB Deshaun Watson started his hearing in front of independent arbitrator Sue Robinson on Tuesday. The NFL is reportedly pushing for at least a year suspension while the NFLPA will defend the quarterback.
In their defense, the NFLPA may use the lack of punishment for New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft as precedence.
In the end, the multi-step process of discipline could lead right back to Roger Goodell making the final decision on the punishment. The NFLPA gave up the battle to remove Goodell from the process during the last CBA negotiations.
While many had guessed that the NFL would try to get Watson’s decision completed just before the holiday weekend, that was based on assumptions. Robinson has not heard a case since the new CBA went into place creating her role so the timeline was uncertain.
Now comes an official report that the decision is expected to be completed this week from Robinson:
Deshaun Watson’s hearing today could well go into tomorrow. The NFL, NFLPA and Watson’s legal team will all present. The NFL is expected to push for an indefinite suspension of at least a year. Judge’s decision expected this week.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) June 28, 2022
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Once Robinson rules, the NFL or NFLPA are able to appeal the ruling only if she deems that Watson violated the league’s conduct policy. If she rules that he did not, the issue is closed. If either side appeals, Goodell is in position to hear that appeal and make the final decision.