The Cleveland Browns are receiving a lot of criticism for the trade of quarterback Deshaun Watson. The franchise is justifying itself with a statement, which the plaintiffs’ attorney now contradicts.

Munich – The trade of quarterback Deshaun Watson from the Houston Texans to the Cleveland Browns has caused quite a stir. Many Browns fans were outraged by the signing of the playmaker, especially because there are still 22 civil lawsuits against Watson for sexual harassment.

Those responsible for the franchise reacted to the criticism in social media with a statement, declaring that they had “intensively” dealt with the situation.

Tony Buzbee has now contradicted this. The lawyer representing the 22 plaintiffs explained in an “ESPN” interview that “the Browns organisation did not contact me”.

He added: “I didn’t expect them to, and I can understand why they didn’t. But knowing what I know, they probably should have. “

According to Buzbee, none of the 32 NFL teams contacted him about Watson.

Browns defend trade of Deshaun Watson

The Browns’ owner couple, Dee and Jimmy Haslem, had previously announced, “We are aware of the precarious situation surrounding Deshaun Watson. Our evaluation process of the extremely sensitive issue has been one of great caution. We are aware that some of the judicial processes are ongoing and we respect these. “

In the end, however, the sporting aspect was compelling, he said. They got to know Watson as a “humble, honest and open person who is aware of his responsibilities on and off the pitch. He showed us in detail how he wants to lead our team in the future,” they continued.

The general manager and senior vice president also agreed: “We have been intensively looking into the legal and sporting situation surrounding him over the past few months. When we had gathered enough information, we decided to pursue a trade,” Andrew Berry explained.

Exactly what happens next for Watson with the Browns is not yet 100 per cent clear. Even if all charges are dropped or settled out of court, the NFL could suspend him for some time.