The Cleveland Browns might learn of Deshaun Watson's fate for the 2022 NFL season before their next exhibition game. The quarterback's representatives are negotiating a settlement with the NFL pertaining to his violation of the league's personal conduct policy, according to Cleveland.com.

The NFL has appealed the six-game suspension recommended by former U.S. District Judge Sue Robinson. Former New Jersey Attorney General Peter Harvey has been appointed to determine Watson's suspension. As the league looks to keep the quarterback off the field for the whole year, there are reports that the two sides could reach an agreement that allows Watson to play before 2023.

The Associated Press reported that Watson said he would accept an eight-game suspension and a $5 million fine. There are rumors that Watson could ultimately settle on a larger fine and a 10-game suspension.

If Watson misses 10 games, he would be eligible to play his first game on Nov. 20 against the Buffalo Bills. The Bills are the preseason favorites to win the Super Bowl.

A source has told NFL Network's Mike Garafolo there's a "better than 50/50 chance" that a settlement for Watson's suspension is agreed upon in the near future. It's still possible that no deal is reached and the quarterback will be forced to accept Harvey's ruling.

Watson will be suspended for at least six games, following Robinson's ruling. As long as Watson isn't suspended for the entire 2022 campaign, he'll be eligible to play in the preseason.

Watson made his Browns' debut in Cleveland's 24-13 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 1 of the preseason. The versatile quarterback completed just one of his five pass attempts for seven yards.

It was Watson's first in-game action in over 19 months. He sat out all of the 2020 season with Houston Texans as he faced more than 20 allegations of sexual misconduct and assault. Watson wasn't suspended last year.

The length of Watson's suspension could convince the Browns to trade for a quarterback. Cleveland will reportedly consider acquiring Jimmy Garoppolo from the San Francisco 49ers if Watson has to miss most of the 2022 campaign.

Jacoby Brissett is currently set to be the Browns starting quarterback with Watson's status in limbo.

The Browns are scheduled to host the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday in their second of three preseason games. Cleveland will visit the Carolina Panthers in Week 1 of the regular season.

Deshaun Watson Cleveland Browns
Deshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns throws a pass during Cleveland Browns training camp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on July 30, 2022 in Berea, Ohio. Nick Cammett/Getty Images