offGrid NFL - NFL appealing Deshaun Watson suspension ruling

The NFL will appeal the ruling of Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson being suspended for just six games in 2022, after he was found to have violated the league’s personal-conduct policy.

In a statement, the league said it had informed the NFL Players Association of their intention to appeal against the suspension. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will be in charge of determining who will hear the appeal.

League has filed its appeal in Deshaun Watson suspension, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 3, 2022

Earlier this week, former federal judge Sue L. Robinson, the disciplinary officer jointly appointed by the NFL and players’ union, determined Watson should miss six games.

The NFL is expected to seek an increase in Watson’s suspension for the entire season, along with a substantial fine.

I'm told NFL is appealing for an indefinite suspension that would be a minimum of one year. But perhaps more significant given the structure of Watson's contract, source tells me the NFL's appeal will also include a monetary fine. Money is now a significant part of the equation.
— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) August 3, 2022

Watson, drafted by the Houston Texans in 2017, has been accused of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct in civil lawsuits filed by 25 women, with the encounters cited taking place between March 2020 and March 2021. One lawsuit was dropped following a judge ruling in April 2021, and Watson settled 20 of the remaining 24 he was facing in June 2022.

Watson has previously denied any wrongdoing.

More to follow.