Deshaun Watson may have reported to Houston Texans training camp Sunday, but the three-time Pro Bowler is still seeking a ticket out of the Bayou City.
According to Chris Mortensen of ESPN, the Texans seek a combination of five high draft picks and starting caliber players. Mortensen says he checked with two league executives.
If the Texans are looking for that level of compensation, it is justified. After all, the club will be taking a step back at the one position the entire sport is built around. Watson has also served them well with two playoff appearances in his three full seasons under center. Even in the 4-12 finish from last year, Watson still played at a high level as he won the league passing title and set the Texans’ single-season record for touchdown passes with 33.
According to Watson’s personal quarterback coach, Quincy Avery, the former 2017 first-round pick should be moved sometime during training camp.
“I’m 100% sure he’ll be traded at some point in the coming future,” Avery said on The Adam Schefter Podcast via Sarah Barshop of ESPN. “I think the Texans have made the decision to move on. He doesn’t want to be there, they’re ready to move on; all they’re waiting for is fair market value for him, and they’ll get a lot.”
The only hitch is Watson being accused by 22 women of sexual assault. Watson is not set to be deposed in the consolidated lawsuit until after the Super Bowl. No settlement appears to be on the horizon. Furthermore, the NFL is conducting its own investigation into the allegations.
