The situation between the Houston Texans and quarterback Deshaun Watson has gotten even murkier over the past few months. Despite Watson's current legal issues, the Philadelphia Eagles continue to express interest in trading for the gunslinger in order to get their hands on a new franchise quarterback after parting ways with former QB1 Carson Wentz.
Via Mike Fisher of Sports Illustrated:
That trade could be executed any time after this draft, with Houston moving on to Tyrod Taylor as the starter, enduring one more empty-cupboard season but then âowningâ the 2022 NFL Draft. It could also be executed in a way that for Philadelphia comes a) cheaper than it otherwise would have, b) with Hurts still the starter should Watson be suspended for part of the 2021 season and c) maybe with contingencies attached to the picks, just as the Wentz trade has attached.
After the Texans disappointed in 2020, Watson publicly requested a trade. However, Houston held firm on its public stance to stand pat. Not too long after the trade request, Watson was flooded with sexual misconduct allegations by over 20 massage therapists.
It remains to be seen if the stance of the Texans has changed and if they are still certain that Watson will be their franchise quarterback moving forward. Due to his legal issues, his value has evidently decreased, which has also decreased the likelihood of him getting dealt even further. The Texans' 2021 NFL Draft leverage is gone.
Meanwhile, the Eagles wanted to seek a different direction as they shipped Wentz to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for draft assets. The move made Jalen Hurts their new QB1, though they apparently are still eyeing a run at Watson.
Deshaun Watson may find himself staying put in Houston for the time being amid his situation, but a potential trade between the two teams could be made at some point after the draft. As his situation plays out, it appears the Eagles will at least be monitoring for the chance to swoop in.
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