The drama in Houston involving embattled quarterback Deshaun Watson appears set to come to a resolution soon. Watson reported to Texans training camp, and now the team is moving forward in attempting to trade the Pro Bowl quarterback.
Per Chris Mortensen of ESPN and other reports, the Texans will ask for three first-round draft picks and two starting-caliber players in exchange for Watson. It’s a steep price for Watson, the NFL’s passing yardage leader in 2020 and one of the league’s most dynamic young stars but one whose immediate availability is uncertain. Watson is facing undetermined league discipline over multiple allegations of sexual assault from several female masseuses.
The Detroit Lions have the required ammunition to make a strong offer for Watson. Detroit has extra first-round picks in both the 2022 and 2023 NFL drafts, meaning they could deal three picks and still keep a first-rounder to help build around Watson. Players like Jamie Collins, Tyrell Crosby, Amani Oruwariye and Trey Flowers all have some real value to a team like the Texans as trade bait, too.
Don’t expect the Lions to be actively involved, or directly mentioned, in the trade scenarios, however. Watson’s uncertain status, the nature of the allegations against him and the steep price to pay to acquire him all make the situation very difficult to envision Lions GM Brad Holmes, or owner Sheila Ford Hamp, having a strong interest.
Most sources indicate the Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles and Carolina Panthers as the most likely teams to bite the bullet and trade for Watson — pending the NFL’s expected disciplinary action on the young star.
