A judge in Houston ruled on Monday that Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson can face questions under oath in at least nine of the 22 civil cases filed against him by women who have accused Watson of sexual assault and harassment during massage sessions.
Watson’s attorney, Rusty Hardin, filed a motion last week to delay Watson’s deposition until after April 1 and argued Monday that such a delay would enable Watson’s legal team to secure depositions with all 22 of the women who are suing Watson and also allow Watson the protection of knowing whether he will also face criminal charges.
Hardin said in court on Monday that the Harris County District Attorney will likely decide by April 1 whether Watson will be criminally charged. The district attorney’s office and Houston Police have declined to comment on the status of the criminal case against Watson.
The NFL is also investigating Watson’s case.
Watson, who has been the subject of NFL trade rumors for months, did not play all season for the Texans despite remaining on the active roster.
