Deshaun Watson has profited handsomely from the question of whether one’s talent outweighs one’s problems.
His ability to play quarterback in the NFL — or expected ability to play quarterback in the NFL — allowed his professional career to survive lawsuits from, and accusations of sexual misconduct by, nearly two dozen women — mostly massage therapists — in Houston.
Despite ugly, troubling details and a looming NFL suspension, Cleveland shipped three first-round draft picks, one third-rounder and two fourth-round picks to the Texans in exchange for Watson. The Browns then signed Watson to a fully guaranteed, five-year, $230 million deal.