Mar 19, 2021 - Sports

7 women sue Texans QB Deshaun Watson over sexual assault allegations

Jacob Knutson

Texans QB Deshaun Watson in a game against the Tennessee Titans in Houston in January. Photo: Carmen Mandato/Getty Images

Seven women in total have filed lawsuits against Houston Texans' quarterback Deshaun Watson with sexual assault and harassment claims, after four new suits were filed this week, according to AP.

Why it matters: The latest filings followed the NFL's statement on Thursday that the league is investigating earlier lawsuits from three massage therapists who accused Watson of sexually assaulted them during sessions by exposing himself and kissing them against their will.

Watson denied the allegations in a tweet on Tuesday, saying he "never treated any woman with anything other than the utmost respect" and that h e looks forward to clearing his name.

The big picture: All seven women filed separate suits, but are represented by Houston attorney Tony Buzbee, who said in a Friday news conference that his law firm is vetting additional allegations and expects to file more lawsuits, according to AP.

The women are seeking compensatory and punitive damages along with recouped court costs.

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7 women sue Texans QB Deshaun Watson over sexual assault allegations

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