BARCC Statement: NFL Needs to Change its Policies

The woeful record of discipline meted out by the NFL for its players’ behavior towards women is well-documented. Following the disappointingly short suspension received by DeShaun Watson, the league has the opportunity to show it has learned from past mistakes by appealing the six-game suspension. Even if the league appeal prevails and Watson’s suspension is extended, Watson’s contract terms make justice elusive. The Browns signed Watson to a five-year contract worth $230 million fully guaranteed, the richest deal in NFL history. Media reports indicate that the suspension will cost him $345,000 – pocket money.  

The NFL needs to change its policies to adequately address this type of egregious conduct. Unfortunately, as is usually the case with the NFL, it takes a public outcry to get them to do the right thing.     

BARCC stands with all survivors and with the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center, which this week stated: “Far too often, those in positions of power and celebrity who commit violence against others are not held accountable for their actions. These ongoing headlines are triggering for so many. To survivors, we say we see you, and we believe you.”