Texans Open to Trading Deshaun Watson

Houston Texans’ quarterback Deshaun Watson is still pursuing a trade and it looks like the team is open to offers.

Despite not wanting to be part of the organization, Watson attended training camp last Sunday to avoid a $50,000 fine per day missed. Though he was reported to be respectful, he still wants out.

Quarterbacks are reporting today in Houston, and #Texans QB Deshaun Watson is expected to be among them, source said. He’s showing up for testing to begin entry into training camp. However, Watson’s stance about the organization and desire to be traded remains unchanged.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 25, 2021

Sources have stated that the price for the quarterback is high and could take at least three first-round picks.

When he reported to camp Sunday, Watson was respectful, but his demeanor reiterated he doesn’t want to be in Houston. The question is, will a team step up with the type of massive offer that would compel the #Texans to move him now? Watson also would have to waive his no-trade.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 26, 2021

If Watson wants out, he would most likely need to waive his no-trade clause.

One of the teams that could make a move for Watson includes the Philadelphia Eagles. According to NFL Insider Adam Schefter, the Eagles have the best shot at acquiring the former first-round pick.

“The Eagles are more equipped to make a run at Deshaun Watson than any other team out there, and if you put Deshaun Watson on the Philadelphia Eagles they become a Super Bowl contender right away,” said Schefter on the John Kincade show.

Watson’s personal coach Quincy Avery has also shared his certainty that the quarterback will be traded.

“I’m 100% sure he’ll be traded at some point in the coming future. I think the Texans have made the decision to move on.”
Quincy Avery on The Adam Schefter Podcast

Teams interested in Watson would be able to jump on the change of heart in Houston if the price is right; Or if his legal situation pans out.

Watson had 22 separate lawsuits filed against him in early spring for sexual assault and misconduct. Most of these civil suits come from massage therapists in the Houston area.

Investigations have been ongoing despite silence from both Watson’s legal team and the NFL. The league hasn’t placed Watson on the commissioner’s Exempt List which could mean that Rodger Goodell doesn’t believe a major violation has occurred.

“The NFL is in no hurry to weigh in with any discipline on Watson, and while some [executives] believe he’ll end up on the commissioner’s Exempt List, until there is more closure about his civil and legal status, there is certainly at least a possibility of a trade if Watson is eligible to play football regularly this season,” said NFL Insider Jason La Canfora.

While the NFL monitors Watson’s situation, the Texans will continue to search for their Week 1 starter.

Photo: Carmen Mandato / Getty Images