With the number of accusers only rising over this past week, Deshaun Watson is now facing an astounding 16 sexual assault lawsuits. Details of these lawsuits are extremely difficult to read as one of the more recent lawsuits called Watson a “serial predator.” The Houston Texans quarterback had not had prior misconduct releases until this week, which of course does not mean situations did not occur, as the world knows when in the case of powerful individuals, accusers face external and internal pressure to come out. 

After the first lawsuit became public, Watson took to Twitter to release a statement writing, “As a result of a social media post by a publicity-seeking plaintiff’s lawyer, I recently became aware of a lawsuit that has apparently been filed against me. I have not yet seen the complaint, but I know this: I have never treated any woman with anything other than the utmost respect…” Watson went on to explain how important it was for him to clear his name against someone “only about it for the money.”

The accusations that face Watson are those of intimidation, threatening behavior, and non-consensual sexual acts. One of the plaintiffs, a massage therapist in Texas, alleges that she felt “intimidated and threatened” and “was afraid of what someone like Watson could do if she did not submit to his demands.” The lawsuit then explains that Deshaun Watson forced the woman into non-consensual oral sex. The other lawsuits, five of which were filed by massage therapists as well, claim that Watson exposed himself and “assaulted and harassed” the women.

Watson’s lawyer, Rusty Hardin believes that these allegations are all part of a larger character-smear on the quarterback. Hardin stated, “Opposing counsel has orchestrated a circus-like atmosphere by using social media to publicize 14 ‘Jane Doe’ lawsuits during the past seven days in a manner calculated to inflame the public and malign Deshaun’s otherwise sterling reputation.” Hardin is pushing for the opposing counsel to “confidentially release” the names of the accusers in order to “properly investigate” saying, “Anonymity is often necessary as a shield for victims but opposing counsel has used it as a sword to publicly humiliate Deshaun before the truth‑seeking process can even begin.”

Buzbee Law Firm, who are investigating and representing the women that have come forward, came out saying that there are “as many as two dozen complaints could be filed against Watson for allegedly lewd or non-consensual sexual behavior.” Already at a staggering number, 

The National Football League released a statement stating, “the matter is under review” and that they would be in close contact with the Texans as the investigation unfolds further. ESPN analyst, Molly Qerim states her concern with the NFL on “First Take” saying, “[It’s] an opportunity for the NFL to show that they respect women, they protect women.” Unfortunately, in the past, the NFL has been underwhelming in terms of its response to domestic violence and sexual assault. Hopefully as more develops in the numerous cases, the NFL is able to finally take a stance. 

If you or anyone you know have experienced a sexual assault on or around St. Lawrence University’s campus, contact 911, Safety and Security, Torrey Health and Counseling (315-229-5392), or the Advocates program hotline at (315-244-5466). For more assistance, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-4673) or local authorities.