The Cleveland Rape Crisis Center has received more than 1,000 donations since the Cleveland Browns traded Friday for Houston Texans quarterback Deshawn Watson, according to a post Saturday morning.
Watson, who missed the entirety of last season due to multiple allegations of sexual harassment, was traded to the Browns in exchange for five future draft picks. The deal is also reported to give Watson the most guaranteed cash amount in NFL history.
“We understand that the story of Deshawn Watson joining the Cleveland Browns is on the minds of too many of our friends and neighbors,” the organization said in a statement. “For those who need additional support, know that the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center is available to you 24/7/365.
“We say to the community: we see you. We hear your outrage. We feel it too. Every click. Every post and every tweet. Every donation sends a clear message.”
A Texas grand jury declined to file criminal charges against Watson earlier this month after 22 civil lawsuits were filed accusing Watson of sexual harassment or harassment. These lawsuits are still ongoing and the NFL is still investigating the allegations against him.
Watson, who originally requested a trade before the start of last season, will now reportedly sign a five-year, $230 million guaranteed deal, the largest guaranteed deal in NFL history. In exchange, the Browns sent the Texans three first-round picks, a 2023 third-round pick, and a 2024 fourth-round pick.
Watson faced several teams in recent days including the Saints, Falcons and Panthers before choosing the Browns. Current Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield has requested a trade.
Watson is undoubtedly one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. In 2020, he scored a league-high 4,823 yards and 33 touchdowns with just seven interceptions.
Deshawn Watson was traded to the Browns on Friday after a grand jury declined to bring criminal charges against him over allegations of sexual misconduct. (Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)