The NFL has concluded its investigation into the latest sexual assault allegations against Deshaun Watson without imposing any disciplinary action.
Insufficient evidence was cited by the league.
The NFL's investigation into sexual assault allegations against Deshaun Watson has concluded.
The league has ended the probe after reviewing the case for several months.
The NFL spokesperson stated that there wasn't enough evidence to justify continuing the investigation.
""The investigation has ended as there was not enough proof to determine a violation of the personal conduct policy," Brian McCarthy, league spokesman, stated in an email to The Associated Press."
Despite his struggles on the field since joining the Cleveland Browns, Watson will not face punishment from the league.
Over three seasons, he has appeared in just 19 games because of suspensions and injuries.
For the second consecutive season, the 29-year-old quarterback is ending the season on injured reserve after sustaining an Achilles tendon tear in October. He is currently rehabilitating the injury in hopes of returning next season.
In 2022, Watson was suspended for 11 games after a woman accused him of sexual assault in Texas. The woman sought more than $1 million in damages before the two sides reached a confidential settlement.
Watson denied the allegations through his attorney, Rusty Hardin.
Despite trading three first-round picks to Houston and signing Watson to a five-year, fully guaranteed $230 million contract, the Browns still owe him $46 million in each of the next two seasons.
Despite Watson being accused of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage therapy sessions while he played for the Houston Texans, the Browns were comfortable with his character and acquired him.
Watson's future with the Browns remains uncertain.
The Browns face a dilemma in enhancing their roster due to the large contract and salary cap implications of their star player. Although Cleveland had a successful season last year and made it to the playoffs, they may have to let go of Watson, which would come with a high cost if they decide to release him.
The Browns signed Jameis Winston for one season to serve as Watson's backup. Since taking over as a starter, Winston has gone 2-3. The Steelers host the Browns on Sunday. In Week 12, Cleveland upset Pittsburgh in a snowy AFC North game.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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