More Deshaun Watson accusers must reveal their names, Texas judges rule

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Several women who filed lawsuits against Deshaun Watson were ordered to identify themselves and refile their complaints with their names attached, Texas judges ruled Friday.

According to Pro Football Talk, three women in total were ordered to reveal their names in their Jane Doe lawsuits accusing Watson of sexual misconduct during massage therapy sessions. Twenty-two women filed lawsuits against the quarterback with two revealing their names publicly earlier this week.

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Tony Buzbee, the attorney for the accusers, revealed in a second hearing Friday that nine of the 12 plaintiffs at issue have volunteered to disclose their name, according to the NFL-centric website. Buzbee also said that more may follow too.

Hardin announced he filed the motion Thursday and hit out at Buzbee, in the process.

"We have said this before and we want to say it again: Deshaun did not force, coerce or intimidate anyone to do anything against their will. When we asked Mr. Buzbee to identify his clients weeks ago, he refused and told us to file a motion," Hardin said.

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"Today we filed that motion. As discussed in our filing, Mr. Buzbee’s use of anonymous lawsuits violates Texas law and the basic concept of fairness. It is clear that, for Mr. Buzbee, this case has never been about seeking justice in a courtroom, but destroying Deshaun’s reputation to enhance his own public profile and enrich himself.  While I understand that anonymity often is used as a shield for victims, Mr. Buzbee is using it as a sword. While shielding his clients from public scrutiny, Mr. Buzbee continues to use their anonymous allegations to destroy Mr. Watson. This is simply not right. And we look forward to resolving these matters in court."

In the motion, obtained by Fox News, Watson’s lawyer argues Texas law does not permit the accusers to file "civil claims using a pseudonym nor should it in this case."

Hardin said in the motion that Buzbee is attempting to "try this case in the court of public opinion rather than the court of law."

Watson is facing 22 lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct. Two women were unmasked this week. Ashley Solis talked at a press conference about Watson’s alleged actions. Another attorney read a letter from Lauren Baxley.

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Hardin is set to have a press conference at 3 p.m. ET