Houston Texans Reach Settlements With 30 Deshaun Watson Accusers

HOUSTON — Thirty women who accused star quarterback Deshaun Watson of sexual misconduct during massage sessions have reached confidential settlements with the Houston Texans, their attorney said Friday.

The terms of the settlements reached between each of the women and the Texans are confidential, said attorney Tony Buzbee, according to The Associated Press.

One of the women filed a lawsuit against the Texans accusing the team of turning "a blind eye" to Watson's behavior toward. The others planned to do the same before the settlements were reached, he said.

“I will have no further comment on the allegations or the Texans’ alleged role, other than to say that there is a marked contrast in the way in which the Texans addressed these allegations and the way in which Watson’s team has done so,” Buzbee said, according to The New York Times.

Two dozen women accused Watson of exposing himself, touching them with his penis or kissing them against their will during massage appointments while he played for the Texans. One woman said Watson forced her to perform oral sex. Last month, 20 of those 24 lawsuits were settled.

Watson was traded to the Cleveland Browns earlier this year. He has denied any wrongdoing and vowed to clear his name. Watson likely faces discipline from the NFL over the allegations.

Texans' owners' Janice McNair, and Hannah and Cal McNair, said in a statement they were "shocked and deeply saddened" upon first learning of the allegations against Watson.

"Although our organization did not have any knowledge of Deshaun Watson's alleged misconduct, we have intentionally chosen to resolve this matter amicably," the statement said. "This is not an admission of any wrongdoing, but instead a clear stand against any form of sexual assault and misconduct."

The trio said they hope the settlements provide some closure to the accusers, the fans, and all parties involved.

"As an organization, we will now turn our focus to the future and doing what we can to ensure respect for all," the statement said.