Yesterday, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson was eyeing the trade market. In particular, Fowler reported that Watson had the Bucs and Vikings on his radar. These are the first reliable reports of teams Watson has been interested in since last season. But today, NFL reporter Josina Anderson says Watson’s agent, David Mulugheta, denied the identification of any teams as trade targets.
I spoke with Deshaun Watson’s agent. He says there's no truth that Watson is eyeing the Bucs, Vikings or any teams ahead of free agency. “We haven’t had any talks among ourselves or with teams about possible destinations as we are focused on clearing Deshaun’s name at this time.”
— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) February 17, 2022
Anderson speaks frequently to agents and even some players, so there is no reason to doubt her report. However, it’s worth noting that Watson’s agent is likely covering his own butt here. Of course he and Watson have had conversations about potential trade destinations that the veteran quarterback prefers. They may have even spoken to a few teams. But the tampering period has not yet opened in the NFL. If Watson is eventually traded to the Bucs or Vikings, the reports could spur on an investigation.
Plus, as Fowler wrote yesterday, all Watson’s attention should be on his legal situation.
“Watson is the defendant in 22 civil cases filed by women in four states alleging sexual assault or inappropriate behavior during massage sessions. His legal issues remain unresolved, and whether the league suspends him under the personal conduct policy is uncertain. The expectation league-wide, however, is that the Texans will once again explore trade options for Watson, possibly around the start of the new league year March 16 or the NFL draft in late April.”
So, the dance continues. We know the Bucs are doing their homework on Watson. But right now, it’s unrealistic to believe the former star quarterback will be moved until his legal situation is resolved. A deposition for the Pro Bowler is on the horizon, set to occur sometime next week.
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About the Author: Jon Ledyard
I think Gabbert is a better option. And please no Andy Dalton, Jameis Winston, or Teddy Bridgewater.
Agree totally. No Carr or stupid Cousins or Jimmy G either. All mediocre and none will ever hoist the trophy. Lol. Give Gabbert a shot and or Trask, if they both suck then we try to draft one next season. They likely will suck. Oh and no more Fitz-Tragic either. Dude is old and while a decent backup he will never win a super bowl either. Out all these guys Winston would probably be best option but that’s not saying much. He knows this team and WR’s and the offense. He had the Saints at 5-2 before the injury 12… Read more »
Deeyham Watson…22 civil cases by women in different states alleging everything from sexual assault to misbehavior? Thats a lotta women! Your payouts gonna be huge if you settle which I imagine you will with a few. Man O man!!
Please no, even if he’s cleared he’s shown he has extremely poor judgment to seek out numerous women for quick flings and put himself in compromising situations since becoming a pro. Just keep the picks and let Trask earn his keep in 2022. If he succeeds then great cause we just got our next starter, if he fails then also great because 2023 has a nice QB class and we’d still have a 1st.