“We Gave Kareem Hunt a Second Chance”: Browns GM Offers Terrible Example to Substantiate Deshaun Watson Receiving ‘Second Chance’ to Play in the NFL

The Cleveland Browns quarterback, Deshaun Watson, faced allegations of misconduct by over two dozen women. Because of this, the NFLPA and NFL settled that the tainted QB should get suspended for eleven games without pay. He will also pay a fine of $5 million. Along with that, he has to undergo a mandatory evaluation. Behavioral experts will do that and the athlete will also follow a treatment program. Watson has the support of the Browns owner, Jimmy Haslam.

Jimmy Haslam believes Watson deserves a fair second chance on the team and in the sport. After the disciplinary ruling, Haslam spoke in a team press conference. The Cleveland leader defended Watson. The team stays on its decision to trade Watson on their roster. They would “absolutely” make the same decision.

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“People deserve second chances, OK. I really think that,” said the Browns owner at the conference. “We think people deserve a second chance. We gave Kareem Hunt a second chance, and that’s worked out pretty well.” 

Haslam’s terrible example; he compared Hunt’s mistake with Deshaun Watson

Jimmy Haslam gave the example of Kareem Hunt. That may not have been his best moment, as Kareem Hunt is a controversial figure just like Deshaun Watson. The Cleveland Browns signed Hunt in 2019 after misconduct against a woman.

There was no video evidence, and no filed charges. Hence, the NFL did not act. However, TMZ released a video of the incident. The Kansas City Chiefs released him. But the Browns gave him a one-year deal although he faced an eight-game suspension.

The fate of Watson

Comparing a terrible event to another untoward event may have not been the best choice for the GM of the Browns. Watson has not played since the 2020 season. He started the Browns’ preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars, but will not play again this season as said by coach Kevin Stefanski.

Deshaun Watson is struck with the heaviest penalty an NFL player ever faced in their career. “I’ve always been able to stand on my innocence, and always said I never assaulted or disrespected anyone,” Watson said, “but at the same point I have to continue to push forward with my life and career.” He maintains his innocence.

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