Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson took a big step in the right direction earlier this week as he tries to clear his name. Watson reached settlements with 20 of his 24 sexual misconduct accusers.

That being said, the Browns signal-caller is still expected to face a suspension from the NFL. A league spokesperson said their investigation didn't involve these latest settlements, either. But, it appears Watson was actually negotiating with the NFL and NFLPA about reaching a fair discipline settlement before the talks fell apart.

Via Josina Anderson:

I'm told there've been recent attempts by the NFL, the NFLPA & Deshaun Watson's advisors to negotiate a discipline settlement. However talks involving a potential number of games missed “fell apart” not being on the same page. As of now, process moves forward, per league sources.

There's a strong belief that Watson could face a very lengthy suspension after 24 women came forward with allegations. That would certainly put the Browns in a tough position in regards to their quarterback situation, with Baker Mayfield likely on his way out. It's actually interesting in itself that Watson was even allowed to negotiate his looming suspension, though.

A decision from the NFL is expected to be announced soon, and it's hard to believe Deshaun Watson won't be missing at least a season. For context, DeAndre Hopkins was suspended for six games just because of a trace of a banned substance that got into his system, while Calvin Ridley got a full season for betting on the NFL.