Deshaun Watson is in a ‘different space’ and ‘really good place’ as he prepares for a full season with the Cleveland Browns after reaching settlements on 23 sexual misconduct lawsuits

Cleveland Browns three-time Pro Bowl quarterback Deshaun Watson is entering training camp in a ‘different space,’ and ‘in a really good place,’ this year according to both himself and general manager Andrew Berry.

‘I think this is going to be a big year for him, professionally and personally,’ Berry said. 

‘We think he’s in great shape physically. He’s been really good on the field. And I love what he’s done off the field. So very excited about him.’ 

Watson started last season with an 11-game suspension due to the NFL’s personal conduct policy after he was accused by more than 20 women of either sexual misconduct or assault during massage sessions.

Two separate grand juries in Texas decided not to pursue charges against Watson following the unproven allegations and he has since agreed to settle 23 of the lawsuits.

Browns general manager Andrew Berry said Deshaun Watson is in a ‘really good place’

Watson himself also stated he is in a ‘different space’ compared to last year’s offseason

He is preparing for his first full season in over two years due to sexual misconduct allegations

Along with the suspension Watson also had to pay a $5 million fine and undergo a mandatory treatment program before being reinstated from his suspension.

Upon returning he started the final six games of the season for Cleveland, and it was evident by his performances that he was rusty after being forced to go 700 days between his last start for the Houston Texans and his debut for the Browns as a result of the allegations.

During the six games the Browns went 3-3 and Watson recorded 1,102 yards, seven touchdowns, and five interceptions. He also had a 38.3 QBR which ranked 27th in the league.

Back when he last played for the Texans during the 2020-21 season Watson had 4,823 yards, 33 touchdowns, seven interceptions, while he continued ascending to being considered one of the league’s best QB’s.

As for the ‘different space’ he is in this year Watson said: ‘Feel really well, feel really good, comfortable being around the guys, the locker room, the coaching staff, the organization and just the city of Cleveland.

‘So having an opportunity to go into the season with a full offseason, locked in, focused, it definitely feels good, and I want to continue to keep channeling and cherishing all that energy and positive energy that’s been spread around this organization.’

Watson also indicated that the suspension and the entire situation has changed him, but he did not specify in what way or ways.

Watson was acquired from the Browns in a massive trade deal from Houston in March of 2022

Watson was one of the league’s best QB’s before his time in Houston ended and he was traded

 ‘The whole situation changed me,’ he said. ‘In a situation where I just had to lock in on myself, channel and really know who I’m surrounding myself with and just really who’s going to be there and support me even when I’m at my lowest point and 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.’

In terms of his teammates Watson said he addressed the team and shared details from his personal life that are not known to the large portions of the public.

‘Things that people don’t really get to hear about,’ he said. ‘Especially last year, it’s been the media directing and narrating something else. … [my story] has been kind of overshadowed.’