Deshaun Watson trade rumors are back in full force on Saturday, just a few days ahead of the NFL’s final cut deadline. The Houston Texans need to make a call on whether or not they want to keep the 25-year-old quarterback, who has maintained that he wants out, or try to piece together a trade to free up a spot on their 53-man roster.
If the Texans do want to deal Watson before Tuesday, the Miami Dolphins appear to be the clear “frontrunner”, according to a latest report.
Yahoo Sports insider Charles Robinson reported on Saturday afternoon that the Dolphins have emerged as the top team in trade discussions with the Texans. With the Carolina Panthers, Philadelphia Eagles and Denver Broncos backing off considerably, Miami also seems to be the only organization with serious interest in Watson at this point.
Houston is reportedly still seeking a massive offer for the three-time Pro Bowler. Robinson reported that the Texans want three first-round picks and two second-round picks for Watson.
Although that price is cheaper than it once was, it’s still quite steep for a player that still has many question marks surrounding him headed into the regular season.
Thread. Sources tell @yahoosports the #Dolphins have emerged as the frontrunner in trade discussions with the #Texans for QB Deshaun Watson. The Texans are seeking 3 first-round picks and 2 second-round picks in negotiations, according to a team that dropped out of trade talks.
— Charles Robinson (@CharlesRobinson) August 28, 2021
Sources said teams have angled for pick protections in any trade, to mitigate a potential #NFL suspension or criminal prosecution tied to ongoing investigations by the FBI, Harris County prosecutor and Houston PD, into sexual assault allegations from multiple women.
— Charles Robinson (@CharlesRobinson) August 28, 2021
Robinson’s report comes soon after NFL insider Jonathan Jones said that the Panthers are not entertaining a trade for Watson at this time. As the 25-year-old continues to face numerous allegations of sexual misconduct, Carolina has decided to avoid the situation entirely.
“The Panthers are not entertaining a trade for Deshaun Watson at this time, I’m told,” Jones wrote on Twitter. “Things could eventually change pending the outcomes of these 22 lawsuits against Watson, but for now Carolina isn’t in on any potential trade.
Watson’s legal situation is far from over, so the Dolphins would be taking a massive risk by trading for him. Robinson reported that all of the teams interested in the quarterback have pursued pick protections, should the 25-year-old face a suspension from the NFL or criminal prosecution.
All eyes will be on the Dolphins and the Texans over the coming days to see if they can work out a deal before Tuesday. If they can’t Watson will likely remain in Houston in some capacity this upcoming year.
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