Report: Watson requests trade from Texans
Star quarterback Deshaun Watson officially requested a trade from the Houston Texans, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Watson made the request "weeks ago" and hasn't spoken to new Texans general manager Nick Caserio or executive Jack Easterby, added Schefter.
The news comes a day after the Texans reportedly decided on David Culley as their new head coach. The former Ravens assistant's hiring won't change Watson's stance, as previously reported.
The 25-year-old's contract contains a no-trade clause, so he has the power to reject potential destinations. Houston signed Watson through the 2025 season after inking a four-year, $156-million extension in September.
The Texans have received calls about Watson for a few weeks but are telling teams they have no intention of bowing to his demand, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Here's Houston's leverage, if used:
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 28, 2021
*Can fine Deshaun Watson $95,877 for missing minicamp.
*Can fine him $50,000 per day for each day of training camp missed, plus one week salary -- $620,000 -- for each preseason game missed.
*If he retires, Texans can collect $21.6 million.
Watson is reportedly frustrated with Houston's ownership over being left out of the franchise's general manager search despite assurances he'd be consulted. The quarterback also reportedly advocated for Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy to get an interview for the Texans head-coaching vacancy, but the organization initially ignored his request.
It's been reported that Watson was eyeing a move to the Miami Dolphins. More recently, it was suggested Miami was second to the Jets after New York hired head coach Robert Saleh, whom Watson also wanted Houston to interview.
Watson set career highs with 4,823 passing yards and 33 touchdowns this season, but the Texans missed the playoffs with a 4-12 record.