NFL closes probe of latest Deshaun Watson sexual assault allegations without discipline

After spending the past several months reviewing the case, the league has ended the probe.

"The matter is closed," league spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email to The Associated Press. "There was insufficient evidence to support a finding of a violation of the personal conduct policy."

He has played in only 19 games over three seasons due to suspension and injuries.

He is ending the season on injured reserve for the second year in a row after he sustained an Achilles tendon tear in October. The 29-year-old quarterback continues to rehab the injury in hopes of returning next season.

Watson served an 11-game suspension in 2022. In September, a woman accused him of a sexual assault in Texas. She was seeking more than $1 million in damages before the sides reached a confidential settlement.

Watson denied the allegations through his attorney, Rusty Hardin.

The Browns still owe Watson $46 million in each of the next two seasons after they traded three first-round picks to Houston and signed him to a five-year, fully guaranteed $230 million contract that has backfired.

Watson's future with the Browns remains uncertain.

His massive contract - and its salary cap ramifications - has put the Browns in a bind in terms of improving their roster. Cleveland has had a disappointing season after making the playoffs a year ago and could move on from Watson, but the cost would be exorbitant if the team releases him.

The Browns signed Jameis Winston for one season to be Watson's backup. Winston has gone 2-3 as a starter since taking over. The Steelers host the Browns Sunday. Cleveland upset Pittsburgh in Week 12 in a snowy AFC North tilt. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report.