NFL finalizes Browns QB Watson's suspension, while Buccaneers coach Bowles says no timetable for Brady's return. Brother of Bills' Knox and FIU linebacker dies, Seahawks fans want Jimmy G, and more NFL news
NFL finalizes Browns QB Watson's suspension
The NFL and the NFL Players Association reached a settlement on Thursday regarding the disciplinary action for Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson, following an appeal by the league.
Previously, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announced the league was appealing the six-game suspension handed down by NFL disciplinary officer Sue. L Robinson earlier this month, asking for at least a year. Goodell called the actions of Watson "egregious" and "predatory behavior."
Thursday settlement will suspend Watson for 11 games without pay, fine him $5 million, and require that he undergo mandatory evaluation by behavioral experts, as well as follow their suggested treatment program, ESPN reported. Watson's suspension takes effect on August 30. He will be eligible for reinstatement on November 28 and can take the field in Week 13 of the regular season.
The $5 million fine is the largest for any player in NFL history, CBSSports reported.
Watson's fine and contributions from the NFL and Browns of $1 million each will create a fund supporting nonprofit organizations "that educate people on healthy relationships, promote education and prevention of sexual misconduct and assault, support survivors, and related causes," the NFL said.
Buccaneers coach Bowles says no timetable for Brady's return
Much has been made of Tom Brady's absence from the Buccaneers for a week, and there seems to be no indication as to when he might return after being excused from practice for undisclosed personal reasons, CBSSports reported.
Tampa Bay head coach Todd Bowles was asked about a timetable for Brady's return, with the regular-season opener slightly over three weeks away.
The Buccaneers are preparing to play the Tennessee Titans.
"We're trying to practice against Tennessee and play a game," Bowles said. "I said 'sometime after Tennessee.'"
"There's no definitive date for me," Bowles said. "But we'll check on it, we'll keep in touch and we'll find out."
Brother of Bills' TE Dawson Knox and FIU linebacker/TE dies at 22
Luke Knox, the younger brother of Buffalo Bills TE Dawson Knox, died on Wednesday at the age of 22. Luke played linebacker at Florida International University (FIU). Luke had recently transferred from Ole Miss to FIU. Knox was from Brentwood, Tennessee, and primarily played on special teams. He had switched to tight end in 2021, although appearing as a linebacker on FIU's roster this season.
"The cause of death for Knox was not revealed," USA Today reported "FIU said police did not suspect foul play."
Seahawks fans hold up sign calling for acquisition of Jimmy Garoppolo
During Thursday night's preseason game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Chicago Bears, with Drew Lock and Geno Smith battling for the starting quarterback role, fans expressed who they wanted to see get the job – and it was neither.
"WE NEED JIMMY G FREAKY FAST," read a sign held by fans that was broadcast on national television.
Smith played the entire first half going 10 of 18, while Lock is sidelined with the virus.
The San Francisco 49ers have made it clear that 2021 No. 3 overall pick Trey Lance is the No. 1 quarterback moving forward. However, Jimmy Garoppolo is still on the roster and has yet to be traded or released, NBC Sports reported.