FBI investigation into Watson

According to Rusty Hardin, the quarterback’s attorney, the FBI is investigating extortion allegations in one of the lawsuits filed against Deshaun Watson.

Allegations of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct against Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson are being investigated by the FBI, the player’s attorney, Rusty Hardin, said Wednesday.

Hardin also said Watson spoke with the FBI regarding allegations of extortion in connection with one of 23 lawsuits filed against the quarterback, 22 of which remain active.

“In April, the FBI approached us and said they were investigating a matter regarding whether one of Mr. [Tony] Buzbee’s clients had committed extortion in a way where they were demanding money from Deshaun, or what they would do in the event they didn’t pay,” Hardin said at a press conference.

On Friday, Buzbee, who represents the women suing Watson, told the League of Justice website that the FBI met with him to discuss Watson and that he contacted several plaintiffs.

“I don’t think they’re investigating Deshaun,” Hardin said. “What they are investigating are the allegations that Buzbee made in his lawsuits. I didn’t know that until yesterday, and then I checked and it’s true. They are.”

Hardin said Watson has not spoken to the NFL as part of its investigation into the claims.

“The NFL regularly tries not to contact the defendant and their attorneys and seek evidence from them until the criminal investigation culminates,” Hardin said. “Historically, they want to make sure they don’t interfere with the criminal investigation. I have had no contact with the NFL except for an initial call to say, when the time is appropriate, we will cooperate fully.”