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Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson opened up about the impact of his suspension for sexual misconduct, admitting that the experience has brought about changes in his life.
“The whole situation changed me,” Watson via ESPN’s Jake Trotter, acknowledging the transformation he underwent during the tumultuous period of suspension. However, he chose not to delve into the specifics of how or why he changed.
Watson spoke about the personal growth he experienced during the difficult time, emphasizing the importance of surrounding himself with supportive individuals during his lowest moments.
He expressed gratitude to those who stood by him and vowed to continue demonstrating his true character and personality moving forward.
“The last few years were definitely my lowest point in my life. But that’s part of life. I just grow from it, I learn from it. I continue to move forward and push forward and continue to show my real character, my real personality, and who I am,” Watson affirmed.
Watson highlighted the significance of sharing his untold story. He expressed frustration with how the media had directed and narrated a different narrative, overshadowing his true experiences and personal growth during the past year.
“Things that people don’t really get to hear about,” he explained, referencing the complexity of his journey. “Especially last year, it’s been the media directing and narrating something else. … [my story] has been kind of overshadowed.”
In 2022 the Browns traded for Watson amidst an ongoing NFL investigation into more than 20 accusations of sexual harassment and assault against massage therapists.
As a consequence of the investigation, Watson was suspended for 11 games, faced a hefty fine of $5 million, and was mandated to participate in a treatment program.