Getty Image
- The Houston Texans are shopping QB Deshaun Watson around the league
- Two teams have reportedly made offers for the Texans passer
- Read more NFL news here
The future of Houston Texans star quarterback Deshaun Watson has been up in the air all offseason.
The talented signal caller was forced to sit out all of last season while battling off the field legal issues. This month, though, Watson was cleared of any criminal wrongdoing.
With that decision behind him, the former first-round selection can focus on his future on the gridiron. And it’s not likely to continue in Houston.
The Texans have actively been shopping the passer around as they look to cut ties with the former Pro Bowler. Many around the league have shown interest, and trade talks are beginning to heat up with spring quickly approaching.
A Pair Of Teams Make Trade Offers For Deshaun Watson
Watson made it clear of the teams that he’d be interested in playing for. While he may not get the luxury of choosing his next destination, it’s evident that NFL teams are bidding for an opportunity to add the star to their roster. And his no-trade clause could at least help him find a team that’s the right fit.
NFL insider Ian Rappaport is reporting that two teams have now made offers for the Texans signal caller.
The #Saints and #Panthers have made offers for #Texans QB Deshaun Watson and are likely to meet with him soon, sources tell me and @TomPelissero. Other teams also are involved. Watson has a no-trade clause and wants to meet with teams before formally waiving it anywhere.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 13, 2022
The Panthers and Saints have made trade offers according to Rappaport. The division rivals are in quarterback limbo following subpar 2021 campaigns.
Carolina has shown interest for a while now. The Panthers went after Sam Darnold last offseason, but the experiment didn’t pay off. Watson would provide an immediate upgrade.
New Orleans would have to start Taysom Hill if the season started today. They’re still looking at the possibility of re-signing Jameis Winston but, again, Watson provides a major upgrade.
The asking price for Watson is high, with Houston wanting three first round picks and more in exchange for their starting passer, but teams aren’t being scared off by the price tag.
The #Texans are expected to grant permission for interested clubs to speak to Deshaun Watson, so this could ramp up quickly. The price hasn’t changed – three first-round picks and more – and multiple teams are willing to pay it. https://t.co/1LJ5NLva9R
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 13, 2022
These talks are expected to heat up over the coming weeks. Look for a number of teams to get involved in the Deshaun Watson sweepstakes. We’ll have to wait and see where he winds up in 2022.