Deshaun Watson, Texans at an ugly impasse
Deshaun Watson wants to be traded by the Houston Texans. Although at least by their word, they have no plans to move him in the near future.
The Houston Texans are not interested in trading star quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Now, whether it happens is another question entirely, but general manager Nick Caserio is setting the tone and perhaps, drawing his line in the proverbial sand.
On Friday, Caserio spoke at the introductory press conference of new head coach David Culley. In the opening remarks, Caserio addressed the Watson situation immediately, saying the following:
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“Organizationally, I just want to reiterate our commitment to Deshaun Watson. He’s had a great impact on this organization, a great impact on a lot of people, a great impact on this team, and we look forward to the opportunity to spend more time with him here this spring once we get started.
“And, you know, we have zero interest in trading the player. We have a great plan, a great vision for him and for this team and his role on our team. We look forward to the opportunity to spend more time with him here this spring.”
Watson has five years left on his contract after signing a massive four-year, $156 million extension last spring. The Texans control his rights until he’s 30 years old, and if they want, can essentially wait for him to get over his strife. Ultimately, Houston and Caserio hold all the power.
Read: Titans RB Derrick Henry Is Hoping Texans Trade Deshaun Watson
Of course, Watson can make it tough on the Texans. He can take to the airwaves — either directly or through his representation — to voice his frustration and displeasure with the team which drafted him in 2017. The Pro Bowler can decide to skip out on OTAs, minicamp and training camp, leaving it an open question as to whether he’ll show up for Week 1.
Even then, the Texans could continue to dig their heels in, believing Watson isn’t going to miss some of the biggest paychecks any American will see in 2021. They’d probably be right, but is it worth having an angry, aggrieved star as the face of the franchise?
Losing Watson is bad for business, but so is having a disgruntled star who reminds everyone how miserable he is at every turn.
The Texans and Watson are at odds, and it appears nothing will bring them together any time soon.
