Watson apologized Friday to “all the women I’ve affected” after being accused by two dozen of sexual misconduct during massage therapy sessions. Potentially facing a one-year suspension, Watson expressed public remorse and remorse for the first time since being accused of sexually harassing or assaulting women during therapy sessions in 2020 and 2021. He spoke before the team’s exhibition opener, a 24-13 win at Jacksonville (0-2) in which Watson was booed through three innings. Fans in an end zone could be heard yelling obscenities at Watson on his first drive. The three-time Pro Bowler completed 1 of 5 passes for 7 yards in his first action since Jan. 3, 2021, with Houston. Deshaun Watson takes a snap during the first quarter of the Browns’ 24-13 preseason win over the Jaguars.Getty Images “I think he probably wants some throws back,” Browns coach Kevin Stefanski said. “Obviously, playing football for the first time in a while, I thought it was important for him to go out there with his teammates in that draft. I’m sure he had butterflies and jitters early on. But I think he understands what he’s doing.” Watson missed first downs and 7 yards while playing without receiver Amari Cooper, running backs Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt and offensive linemen Joel Bitonio and Jack Conklin. Starting center Nick Harris, who is filling in for NFLPA president and salary loser JC Tretter, went into the second game with a right knee injury. Harris will undergo tests Saturday to determine the extent of his injury, Stefanski said. Cleveland trailed 13-0 when Watson’s night ended. He spent much of the second half sitting on a cooler on the sideline chewing gum. If he took any steps, they came before the start. “Look, I want to say that I’m really sorry to all the women that I’ve affected in this situation,” Watson said in the pregame interview. “The decisions that I made in my life that got me to this position, I certainly wish I could take them back, but I want to keep moving forward and growing and learning and showing that I’m a real person of character and you’re going to keep pushing in front”. Deshaun Watson throws a pass during the Browns’ preseason win. USA TODAY Sports The team declined to make Watson available after the game. Watson, who denied any wrongdoing while settling 23 of 24 civil lawsuits, still faces league discipline. The NFL is appealing the six-game suspension of independent referee Sue L. Robinson. The retired federal judge concluded that Watson violated the league’s personal conduct policy with “outstanding” and “predatory” behavior. As part of her ruling, Robinson noted Watson’s lack of remorse. The appeal now lies with Peter C. Harvey, a former New Jersey attorney general appointed by commissioner Roger Goodell. In the meantime, Watson can practice and play. Stefanski said he wanted to take action in Watson’s preparation despite the looming suspension. “It’s been something we’ve been talking about for the last few months, weeks, just trying to figure out what was the best path forward — not just for our quarterbacks — but for the whole team,” he said. Watson jogged onto TIAA Bank Field with a security guard at his side and later stopped to sign autographs after warmups. No protests against Watson were found outside the stadium, although several cars could be seen with nasty messages tearing at the embattled quarterback.
