Deshaun Watson’s lawyer wants people to “keep an open mind.”
On Friday, the number of sexual assault lawsuits filed against the Houston Texans quarterback rose to seven, with five more on the way, and the victims’ lawyer, Tony Buzbee, said he has spoken to 10 more women he has yet to vet.
Rusty Hardin, lawyer for Watson, said he plans to respond to the growing number of allegations next week.
“I’m extremely proud to represent Deshaun Watson and wholly stand behind him against what we believe are meritless allegations,” Hardin said in a statement. “However, we will wait to comment in detail until we’ve completed our review of the numerous, evolving allegations from Mr. Buzbee. We will respond next week and ask you to keep an open mind until we do so.”
Buzbee’s numerous clients claim Watson assaulted multiple Houston-area massage therapists, with one alleging she was forced to perform oral sex on Watson.
“They bring these cases for one reason only: Stopping further misconduct from this defendant and any others like him,” Buzbee said during a Friday press conference. “We won’t be deterred.”
The assertions made against Watson are currently being investigated by the NFL. The veteran quarterback, who requested a trade from the Texans, has denied the allegations.
“I have never treated any woman with anything other than the utmost respect,” he said in a statement.
The 25-year-old Watson’s agent, David Muguleta, also responded to the lawsuits on Friday.
“Sexual assault is real. Victims should be heard, offenders prosecuted,” Mulugheta posted on Twitter. “Individuals fabricate stories in pursuit of financial gain often. Their victims should be heard, and those offenders also prosecuted. I simply hope we keep this same energy with the truth.”