Roger Goodell: NFL Investigating Deshaun Watson Under Personal Conduct Policy

Eric Christian Smith/Associated Press

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell told ESPN on Thursday an investigation into Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson for violations of the league's personal conduct policy is underway. 

Watson has been accused of sexual assault and misconduct by 22 women, who have filed civil suits against the 25-year-old.

"We're obviously following that and looking at that ourselves," Goodell said. "There are important steps that we will be taking as part of out personal conduct policy. When we get to that point we will certainly make a decision."

It's unclear what the investigation entails or what the potential outcomes could look like if Watson is found in violation of the policy. 

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was originally suspended for six games—later reduced to four games—after allegations of sexual assault arose in 2009 and 2010. The allegations did not result in Roethisliberger being charged with a crime. 

Watson, through lawyer Rusty Hardin, has maintained his innocence this offseason as the allegations mounted. 

A number of the allegations follow a similar pattern of Watson privately messaging women for massages on social media, then exposing himself and demanding sexual favors during sessions. 

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There is no known timeline for the NFL to complete its investigation.