Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson continues to face challenges both on and off the field—as well as a possible NFL suspension.
Amid ongoing legal issues, including a new lawsuit accusing him of misconduct, Hall of Famer Warren Moon told TMZ Sports that he believes Watson’s struggles are largely mental. According to Moon, Watson’s performance has been heavily impacted by the weight of his legal troubles, which have spanned several years and continue to mount.
Watson has struggled to regain the form that once made him a Pro Bowl quarterback. Since the legal battles began in 2021, Watson has not reached his previous level of play, missing significant time due to suspension and injuries.
Moon, who developed a friendship with Watson during his time in Houston, said, “He’s still dealing with a lot of that crap that he dealt with a couple of years ago with the lawsuits and all that. And now, all of the sudden, another lawsuit comes up.”
Moon on Watson: “He’s Playing With a Heavy Mind”
Moon sympathized with Watson but also acknowledged that the quarterback’s on-field struggles have likely been influenced by the constant legal battles. “It seems like every time he goes out on the field he’s playing with a heavy mind and he’s not able to focus on the game,” Moon told TMZ Sports. “He’s probably trying a little bit too hard. He’s pressing. And he’s just not able to play the way he’s capable of playing.”
Watson’s legal troubles began in 2021, with a series of lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct, ultimately resulting in an 11-game suspension in 2022.
NFL NEWS & RUMORS: Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns Updates
Although Watson settled most of the lawsuits, another surfaced recently, adding to the distractions. Watson has not returned to the Pro Bowl since these issues came to light, and his on-field performance has been inconsistent.
Watson’s Struggles on the Field and Future Outlook
On the field, Watson has struggled to find his rhythm. Through two games this season, he has shown flashes of his old self but remains inconsistent. The Browns’ recent loss to the New York Giants dropped them to 1-2 on the season, with Watson delivering a mixed performance marred by missed opportunities and sacks.
Watson’s current legal situation could also lead to further disciplinary action from the NFL. Reports suggest that the league may be considering additional suspension under its Personal Conduct Policy, depending on the outcome of the new lawsuit.
The Browns are seemingly preparing for all possibilities, including the potential need for backup quarterbacks Jameis Winston or Dorian Thompson-Robinson to step in should Watson face further legal fallout.
NFL NEWS & RUMORS: Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns Updates
Despite the ongoing struggles, Moon remains hopeful that Watson can turn things around. “I kind of understand it,” Moon said. “I sympathize with it, but some of this, he put himself in those situations.”
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