Then there’s the possibility that Watson settles the case quickly, securing an agreement from the accuser that she won’t talk to anyone without a subpoena. Since the league can’t force non-employees to cooperate with these investigations, a settlement with a broad confidentiality agreement would short-circuit the process.

In a list of the NFL quarterbacks most likely to be benched, Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox noted that Watson may not be in any immediate danger of losing his job, but could be on track to falling out of favor with Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam

Florio also mentions that if Watson is suspended, it could give the Browns an “avenue” to void what’s left on his fully guaranteed contract — $92 million due in 2025 and 2026.