The Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints are the two teams left vying for quarterback Deshaun Watson. Atlanta has been making big moves to make the addition, most recently restructuring Matt Ryan's contract. The new deal gives the longtime quarterback an extra four days to entertain his trade options.
While the Saints still appear to be in the race, the Falcons are extremely confident in their growing relationship with Watson. According to CBS Sports' Josina Anderson, Atlanta believes they have the “keys to the city” in the situation. She tweeted the news Friday afternoon.
I’m told Falcons brass has ‘keys to the city’ to bring a trade home with Deshaun Watson & would be ‘surprised’ if that doesn’t occur based on strong mutual interest & conversations. Separately I expect Watson to receive new money in a restructured contract once any trade is done.
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) March 18, 2022
Anderson noted that there is an alleged “strong mutual interest” between Watson and the Falcons, and the organization would be “surprised” if the quarterback didn't sign with Atlanta.
Article Continues BelowEarlier this week, the Falcons were also battling the Cleveland Browns for Watson's time and attention. The quarterback met with the Browns but the two sides ended up going their separate ways. The interaction left the Browns with bad blood with Baker Mayfield. Their quarterback situation is now a completely separate problem.
The Texans selected Watson 12th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft. The 26-year-old is a three-time Pro Bowler and led the league in passing yards in 2020.
It's unclear who or what the Falcons are willing to trade in exchange for the Houston quarterback, but it sounds like they have a solid plan.