Texas star quarterback Deshaun Watson denied the sexual assault charges described in an open lawsuit on Tuesday.
Tony Buzbee, the Houston lawyer who represents the alleged victim, told Fox 26 in Texas that Watson was receiving a massage from the unidentified woman when the 25-year-old “went too far”.
Details about the suit were scarce.
Watson refuted the claim on Twitter after Buzbee posted on social media about the process.
“As a result of a post on social media made by a plaintiff’s lawyer looking for publicity, I recently became aware of a lawsuit that apparently was brought against me,” wrote Watson. “I haven’t seen the complaint yet, but one thing I do know: I’ve never treated any woman with more than respect. The plaintiff’s lawyer claims that it is not about money, but before filing the lawsuit he made an unfounded six-figure agreement request, which I quickly rejected. “
Watson added that he was eager to clear his name.
In a lengthy Instagram post, Buzbee said he was “extremely proud to represent those who have no perceived power against those who have PERCEIVED power”.
“This case we just opened against Watson is not about money – it is about dignity and preventing behavior that should be stopped NOW!” Buzbee said.
Watson, a three-time Pro Bowl quarterback, has been at the center of trade negotiations this off-season, after he asked to be transferred. The former Clemson star would have been dissatisfied with the team’s process of hiring Nick Caserio as general manager in January.