Report: Texans could pursue Smith as Watson contingency

The Houston Texans may consider pursuing free-agent quarterback Alex Smith if Deshaun Watson is unavailable to play or isn't a member of the team this season, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports.

Watson has put in a trade request and could potentially hold out from offseason workouts to force a deal.

The 25-year-old quarterback is also facing 21 lawsuits alleging sexual assault and inappropriate behavior. The league could possibly suspend Watson or place him on the commissioner's exempt list to start the season even if the Texans don't trade the signal-caller.

Though teams reportedly continue to inquire about Watson, Houston remains unwilling to engage in trade talks.

Houston would presumably sign Smith to compete with Tyrod Taylor, who reportedly inked a one-year deal worth up to $12.5 million with the franchise in March.

Smith won the 2020 Comeback Player of the Year award after making a miraculous return to football following a life-threatening leg injury. The 36-year-old helped guide the Washington Football Team to the NFC East title after taking over the starting job from Dwayne Haskins.