BEREA, Ohio — For the first time since August, Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson spoke to members of the press Thursday.

Watson will start in his first regular-season game with the Browns on Sunday, facing his former team, the Houston Texans.

Watson spent the season thus far off the field, serving an 11-game suspension due to a violation of the NFL’s personal conduct policy. He was also ordered to pay a $5 million fine.

The penalty against the Browns quarterback came after he was accused of sexual harassment during massages by more than two dozen women.

Watson, however, was silent Thursday when it came to questions on the allegations or anything related to his personal life, only answering questions related to football.

He started off by telling reporters he was excited to back, then proceeded to thank his personal trainers, the fans and the City of Cleveland for support he’s received over the past several months.

Watson also thanked his temporary replacement, backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett, for the work he did both on and off the field.

“The big brother he’s been to me and everyone in that locker room, the passion, the grit and the leadership that he’s shown these past few weeks… everyone can see that,” Watson said. “He’s the ultimate guy who everyone wants to follow. So he’s been awesome to me and our relationship has been great, the bond has been great and we’re going to continue to grow from there.”

Nearly all of the more than two dozen lawsuits filed against Watson having been settled.

At least 10 of the women who accused Watson of sexual harassment plan to attend Sunday’s game in Houston, according to Tony Buzbee, the attorney representing those women.

Watson has not faced any criminal charges and maintains his innocence.

He signed a five-year contract worth $230 million after being traded from the Texans to the Browns.

The Browns take on the Texans Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.