Those associated with the Houston Texans should be careful about what they both say and don't say as it pertains to the potential future of quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Earlier on Thursday, NFL Media's Jim Trotter suggested that Houston head coach David Culley hinted the Texans could trade the 25-year-old star signal-caller. However, Culley seemed to attempt to squash that story while speaking with reporters shortly after Trotter's tweets appeared on timelines.
David Culley on Watson requesting a trade: "It's something you have to talk to Nick about."
— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) March 11, 2021
"We are very committed to Deshaun as our QB."
Culley asked do you think you can change Watson's mind?
— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) March 11, 2021
"Its not a matter of me changing anybody's mind, we are committed to him and we are going to move forward "
Are you trading Deshaun Watson?
— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) March 11, 2021
"We are very committed to Deshaun as our QB. He is our QB"
Is Deshaun committed to the team?
— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) March 11, 2021
“He’s a Houston Texan”
Watson is signed through 2025, and the NFL Draft doesn't open until April 29. Thus, the Texans can remain "unwilling" to discuss trading the quarterback with other teams for at least a month, if only to try to convince Watson that he's either starting for Houston in September or won't be playing at all. Even if the Chicago Bears are prepared to send "a boatload" of draft picks to Houston for Watson, he could void that transaction via the no-trade clause attached to his contract.
Unless Watson retires out of spite, one side involved in what has become a public spat between player and club will ultimately cave. With each passing week, feelings that this relationship isn't salvageable only grow stronger.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!