Four years after the NFL announced a $7 million commitment to charities following Deshaun Watson’s suspension, questions are emerging about where the money went. A report by FOIAball journalist David Covucci alleges that some of the funds were used for the league’s own training programmes instead of going entirely to outside nonprofits. The findings have renewed scrutiny of the NFL’s promise to support survivors and prevent sexual misconduct. it raises concerns about transparency and whether the league fulfilled its original commitment While the available information does not establish that the entire amount went undelivered.
The commitment followed Watson’s 11-game suspension in August 2022. The NFL also fined the Cleveland Browns quarterback $5 million, while the league and the Browns each pledged an additional $1 million for charitable causes, bringing the announced total to $7 million. The NFL Foundation distributed approximately $2.3 million over three years to charities focused on sexual abuse and misconduct prevention, according to his report. The league reportedly directed Covucci to four organisations that had received a combined $600,000. Following an appeal, the NFL and the NFL Players Association agreed to an 11-game suspension and a $5 million fine.
“This fund will support the work of non-profit organizations across the country that educate young people on healthy relationships, promote education and prevention of sexual misconduct and assault, support survivors, and related causes,” the league said. The NFL described its intended use in its original statement. It also acknowledged that some of the pledged money was being used for “harassment education and training programs across the league. The NFL conducted its own investigation. Former federal judge Sue L. Robinson initially imposed a six-game suspension after finding that the league had proved sexual assault, as defined by its policy, against four therapists.