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Thursday, May 14, 2026

'Totally False': Rusty Hardin Denies Recent Claims Against Ex-Texans QB Deshaun Watson - Sports Illustrated

HOUSTON -- Former Houston Texans and current Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson is facing 24 civil lawsuits of sexual misconduct and sexual assault. His attorney, Rusty Hardin, released a statement saying there would be explaining that there would be no immediate response, because "our legal team has not had time to investigate this new filing and had not heard her name until today.”

“The Browns and all of us that know Deshaun are still totally behind him,’’ Hardin said. “These latest claims by [Tony] Buzbee change nothing, and they are totally false, and that will ultimately be what everyone concludes when they hear the evidence.’’

According to Cleveland.com, the Browns remain "100 percent" committed to Watson as of this time. After the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback following two lawsuits being filed against his name earlier this month. After two grand juries in Texas elected not to pursue criminal charges against Watson in March, Cleveland traded seven draft picks — including three future first-round picks — to Houston for the disgruntled passer.

Watson agreed to waive his no-trade clause and join the Browns after owner Jimmy Haslam agreed to give his new quarterback a five-year extension worth $230 million fully guaranteed.

The 23rd active lawsuit was filed by Buzbee, states that A New U Salon Spa “provided” women for Watson in return for cash. The claim stated: “Dionne Louis, the owner of the spa, facilitated massages for Watson and knew Watson was...



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