The agent of Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, David Mulugheta, issued a statement on Twitter in response to sexual assault allegations against his client.
Watson has denied accusations of wrongdoing. Mulugheta appeared to echo this denial, acknowledging the seriousness of sexual assault but also asking to “keep this same energy with the truth.”
Mulugheta's phrasing is a bit dangerous. It is asinine to suggest victims fabricate stories “often.”
That said, he is seemingly sharing in Watson's previous sentiment. Watson's initial statement labeled the man executing the lawsuits, Tony Buzbee, as a “publicity-seeking” lawyer.
Buzbee told ESPN there are nine lawsuits coming against Watson, with seven already filed:
This brings the total to seven lawsuits filed against Watson by Houston attorney Tony Buzbee, who has said on Instagram that there are nine total cases against Watson. Buzbee told ESPN on Thursday via text message that his office has been in contact with police and that he would provide information to the police about all nine of the women who intend to sue Watson.
Sarah Barshop of ESPN reported Houston police have declined to comment on the situation. Barshop also reported the Harris County district attorney's office has yet to receive information regarding any allegations.
The Texans issued a statement Thursday speaking to the seriousness of the issue. That statement followed the NFL officially responding to the Watson allegations and launching its own investigation.
Deshaun Watson could still be punished by the NFL regardless of the outcome of these lawsuits. Buzbee is scheduled to address the media Friday afternoon, per Barshop.