Nike & Beats By Dre End Deal With Deshaun Watson Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations
Deshaun Watson’s endorsement deals are dropping like flies as both Nike and Beats By Dre have ended their partnership with him.
“We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and have suspended Deshaun Watson. We will continue to closely monitor the situation,” Nike said in a statement per CNBC.
Beats has had a partnership since 2017 with Watson. In addition brand Reliant revealed that it did not plan on extending their partnership contract with the player.
“Reliant is aware of pending civil lawsuits and a criminal investigation involving Deshaun Watson, Houston Texans quarterback,” the company said in a statement. “Our relationship with Watson as a brand ambassador was scheduled to end this spring prior to these allegations, and there are no plans for future engagements or contracts with him. We take accusations of this nature very seriously. With respect to the legal process, we do not have any further comment on this matter.”
RELATED: Houston Police Investigating Deshaun Watson Amid Multiple Sexual Misconduct Allegations
On Friday night (Apr. 2) the HPD announced that they launched an investigation after a complainant filed a criminal report against him. However, law enforcement officials have yet to share additional details, including the crime(s) Watson is accused of committing.
RELATED: NFL Launches Investigation After 9 Women Accuse Houston Texans Deshaun Watson Of Sexual Assault
In their announcement, the department wrote, “As with any allegation, the Houston Police Department is now conducting an investigation and will not comment further during the investigative process.” As of Friday, at least 21 women are suing the professional athlete for alleged sexual assault and inappropriate behavior. Of Watson’s accusers, many are massage therapists and/or wellness professionals, alleging abuse during their sessions over the past year.
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