Report: Texans open to offers for Watson
The Houston Texans are willing to listen to trade offers for quarterback Deshaun Watson, sources told Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
Watson reported to training camp but reiterated his desire to be traded, which he officially requested in January, Pelissero adds. The Texans consistently said they wouldn't entertain offers for the quarterback since then.
The team's asking price could reportedly be at least three first-round picks. Two NFL executives told ESPN's Chris Mortensen that Watson could fetch five high draft picks and starting-caliber players.
The 25-year-old remains under police and NFL investigation after 22 lawsuits alleging sexual assault and inappropriate behavior were filed against him this offseason. Watson has denied any wrongdoing.
Interested teams have done homework on Deshaun Watson’s legal situation. The NFL hasn’t placed him on the exempt list and the civil cases won’t go to trial this year. If a team gets comfortable with that piece, it’s a rare opportunity to acquire one of the NFL’s best young QBs. https://t.co/8rIYLmprHx
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 26, 2021
By reporting to camp, Watson avoids a $50,000 fine for each day missed at practice. The signal-caller stayed away from the team during the voluntary offseason program.
Watson demanded a trade after his relationship with team ownership deteriorated amid the process that led to general manager Nick Caserio's hiring in January.
The Philadelphia Eagles, Miami Dolphins, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, and Washington Football Team are rumored to be among the teams interested in the quarterback.
Watson set career highs with 4,823 passing yards and 33 touchdowns this past season. He signed a four-year, $156-million extension in September that contains a no-trade clause.