Texans QB Deshaun Watson Requests A Trade

Earlier this week I tweeted that the next stage of the Watson saga was the Texans QB requesting a trade, but that I didn’t expect that to happen until after the Super Bowl. However, not only has that happened, but apparently it happened weeks ago:

Now, this is quite significant. The Texans have said they have absolutely no interest in trading the star QB, but in the age of player power, he could force their hand.

We don’t know what a potential trade could cost, but there is a rumour that it’ll take three first round picks +. Whether JD is willing to pay that with so many holes on the team is another question.

I’ve been on the record saying that if the cost is three 1st round picks, I’m making that trade without hesitation. If it’s 3 firsts and another conditional one that is dependent on him taking us to the play-offs etc, I’m good with that as well.

Although the Texans only won 4 games in 2020 (their defense was historically bad and their offensive line made ours look respectable), Watson had an outstanding season. The 25-year-old QB threw for 4823 yards, completing over 67% of his passes for 33 touchdowns and just 7 interceptions. He’s an elite talent at the most important position in football, the Jets will be kicking the tyres and testing the resolve of Texans GM Nick Caserio.

Watson does have a no-trade clause written into his contract, meaning he can decide which teams he will accept a trade to. Last week the Miami Herald reported that Watson’s #1 preference is to play in New York for the Jets, a position that was backed up by Chad Johnson. His inside sources are probably pretty reliable.

This is a really key story to follow as if he does get traded, and it isn’t to the Jets, there’s a good chance he lands in Miami. I don’t know about you, but the thought of having to face him and Josh Allen four times a year for the next decade isn’t overly appealing to me.

New Jets Head Coach Robert Saleh has been complimentary in relation to current Jets starter Sam Darnold throughout his media stops since being hired. I wouldn’t read too much into those statements, as a rule of thumb for head coaches, you always speak positively about the guys in your locker room, what do people want him to say? He’s said he’s talented but it’s too soon to commit to him as the starter in 2021. Standard response.

Watson would improve the Jets considerably, and he’d also make them a destination ahead of free agency. Can Joe Douglas get this done?