Report: Trade talks for Deshaun Watson could resume around trade deadline

According to a report, trade talks for Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson could heat back up when the trade deadline approaches in early November.

“However, this could all change around the time of the trade deadline on Nov. 2,” wrote Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. “Some of the teams who had some interest in Watson — the [Miami] Dolphins, [Philadelphia] Eagles, [Carolina] Panthers, [Denver] Broncos and others — could renew their interest depending on how the season goes, based on conversations with sources informed of the situation.”

Trade rumors involving Watson have largely cooled off over the past week or two. The former first-round pick is on the Texans’ roster to start the 2021 regular season, though he is not expected to play for the team.

“Watson is dug in on his request to be traded and not play for Houston,” Rapoport continued. “The Texans are dug in on waiting for a strong enough offer, per a source informed of the team’s thinking.

 

“Houston received significant offers for Watson over the course of the offseason, including those with multiple first-round picks, according to sources involved in the various discussions. General manager Nick Caserio did not deem it enough to deal a franchise QB in his prime.”

A lot could change between now and the November trade deadline. For one, some clarity could be provided on Watson’s legal situation. Currently, there’s no telling how that’s going to unfold.

Additionally, there’s always a chance that some teams could grow frustrated with their quarterback play. That could motivate some teams to contact Houston about a potential trade for Watson.

On the field, the 25-year-old Watson has had a great NFL career so far. In the 2020 season, he completed 70.2 percent of his passes for a league-high 4,823 yards. He also threw for 33 touchdowns.

The Clemson University product has already been named to three Pro Bowls. There’s no doubt that the talent is there. However, given the disturbing allegations that have come his way over the past year, his future in the NFL remains a mystery.