Watson, along with many other starters from the team, will play the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Browns announced Wednesday.
The decision was made by former federal judge Sue last week. L Robinson, came as a result of Watson’s “predatory behavior”.
When asked why the league continues to seek a harsher punishment for Watson, Goodell said: “Because we’ve seen the evidence.[Robinson]was very clear on the evidence, she reinforced the evidence that there were multiple violations here and they were egregious and it was predatory behavior.”
“These are things that we’ve always felt were very important to address in a responsible manner,” Goodell continued.
The league appointed former New Jersey Attorney General Peter C. Harvey to hear the NFL’s appeal.
According to the collective bargaining agreement signed in 2020, Harvey’s judgment “will be binding on the players, clubs and parties of the CBA.”
Watson has repeatedly denied the allegations.
“I have never attacked a woman in my life, I have never disrespected her and I have never molested a woman,” Watson said. “I regret nothing.”
Twenty-four civil lawsuits were filed against Watson; 23 were settled confidentially. Two Texas grand juries declined to criminally indict Watson.
Watson, a three-time Pro Bowler, did not play for the Texans last season due to a trade claim and the investigation into those allegations.
Earlier this year, the Browns traded three first-round picks for Watson and then signed him to a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract, the most guaranteed money in NFL history.