Deshaun Watson may be disgruntled, and the organization may not have heard from him since hiring a new general manager, but Nick Caserio remains undeterred.
The Houston Texans’ new general manager told reporters during a virtual press conference Friday that Watson, a three-time Pro Bowler, is their quarterback.
“We’re starting from scratch,” Caserio said. “I think the most important thing for us is just to speak specifically to Deshaun. I’d say from afar the respect and administration that I have for him as a player and what he’s done for this organization is significant. He’s our quarterback.”
The former New England Patriots director of player personnel explained that Watson was a “big part of the reason” why the AFC East club sustained losses against the Texans in 2019 and 2020.
What Caserio stressed is taking time for the players and organization to come together and have discussions.
“I think it’s important for all of us to take some time, and I think when the time is appropriate, we’ll have discussions with the players,” said Caserio. “I think it’s important for us, whatever conversations that we’re going to have with players about their individual situation, that we do it directly and we do it face to face. When the appropriate time comes, we’ll sit and spend some time with Deshaun. But certainly looking forward to the opportunity to work with him.”
Caserio would not address the rumors that Watson could ask for a trade, only stating, “He’s our quarterback, and again, once we have an opportunity, spend some time together, we’ll have further discussions.”
The 45-year-old’s first order of business may be to get his franchise quarterback on-board with his vision of the team moving forward. If nothing else, it will make the transition from the Bill O’Brien era to the new one all the smoother.
