Deshaun Watson will likely never play for the Houston Texans again, and with the 2021 NFL season approaching, there is a growing rumor that he could be on a new team before Week 1.
Amid reports that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell could hold a deal, many in the league seem to believe that a Watson trade is imminent.
According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, Several team executives who were not involved in the negotiations say there is “growing chatter” about Houston’s trade to its franchise quarterback in the “coming days.”
Even more noteworthy, according to Florio, the Miami Dolphins and Carolina Panthers are believed to be the two finalists. While the Denver Broncos and Philadelphia Eagles were once involved, they are being held back due to current legal uncertainty.
Will Deshaun Watson be traded?
It’s a bit surprising that so many in the NFL believe Watson is about to be traded, especially considering the teams involved. A recent report hinted that the Houston sales price was significantly higher for AFC teams, seeking three first-round picks and additional assets.
Considering the strides made by Tua Tagovailoa in training camp and preseason action, it would be a bold move for Miami to dump years of draft capital – all for a player who could face a lengthy suspension.
While the Panthers have often been mentioned as a possible landing site, the conversation in the league could be speculative. Jonathan Jones, CBS Sports NFL Expert other Panthers beat writer Joe Person Each pointed out after Florio’s report that Carolina isn’t even interested in Watson at the moment.
There is a huge risk to any team that Watson acquires. Hey what was interviewed by the FBI, faces 22 civil lawsuits, 10 criminal complaints and is being investigated by the NFL, the Houston Police Department and is dealing with a Harris County grand jury investigation.
The NFL will not place him on the commissioner’s exempt list until criminal investigations are complete, a process that could take months. Since the Texans will not lower the asking price, any team Watson acquires would be taking an unprecedented risk.
Considering that it is still not a guarantee that he will play in the NFL this year, it is unlikely that a team will change him before Week 1.