Report: Teams still interested in Watson, monitoring sexual assault allegations

Multiple NFL teams remain extremely interested in acquiring Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson and are monitoring the allegations of sexual assault in lawsuits filed against him this week, sources told Aaron Wilson of The Houston Chronicle.

The Philadelphia Eagles, Carolina Panthers, New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers, and Denver Broncos are among the clubs still monitoring Watson's situation.

Four more women filed lawsuits Thursday night alleging that Watson had sexually assaulted them, bringing the total to seven women.

The women who sued Thursday each worked in a spa or as a massage therapist. In their lawsuits, they claim that Watson exposed himself, touched them with his penis, or forcibly kissed them.

Tony Buzbee, the lawyer representing all the women, said Friday that he has spoken to 22 women and will file five more cases against Watson. Buzbee also said that Watson's "conduct happened as recently as this month," after he'd reached out to Watson's lawyer about the allegations, according to ESPN's Sarah Barshop.

The NFL noted Thursday, after the first three lawsuits were filed, that the situation is being reviewed under the league's personal conduct policy.

The quarterback released a statement Tuesday saying that he looks forward to clearing his name. Following Buzbee's press conference Friday, Watson's attorney also released a statement.

"I'm extremely proud to represent Deshaun Watson and wholly stand behind him against what we believe are meritless allegations," said Rusty Hardin, per Mark Berman of Fox 26. "However, we will wait to comment in detail until we've completed our review of the numerous, evolving allegations from Mr. Buzbee.

"We will respond next week and ask you to keep an open mind until we do."

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