With Deshaun Watson still a part of the Houston Texans franchise amid his trade demands, head coach David Culley is in a weird spot trying to navigate the media. Thursday, Culley seemingly sent some mixed messages on Watson's status, and this situation continues to be a debacle.

As a guest on Jim Trotter's podcast, Culley apparently gave the impression that Watson could be out the door soon.

Via ProFootballTalk's Michael Davis Smith:

Culley didn't say Watson will be traded, but Culley's choice of words hinted that Watson may not be a Texan much longer. Culley referred to Watson being on the roster “right now” and indicated that the Texans don't want a franchise quarterback who doesn't want to be there, saying, “We want guys who are all in.”

Shortly after, Culley attempted to clear the air during a press conference, indicating there is no plan to trade Watson. However, he also offered up some confusing statements on Watson's mindset.

Via PFT's Mike Florio:

“We are very committed to Deshaun as our quarterback,” Culley said. He reiterated that position at least once during the press conference.

Culley also said that there’s no contingency plan if/when Watson goes, because Watson is the quarterback. Culley likewise said, as to the notion that Watson wants out, it’s “not a matter of me trying to change anybody’s mind.”

Although Culley declined to comment on his conversation(s) with Waston, Culley said this when pressed on Watson wanting out: “I don’t know about him not wanting to be a Houston Texan.” Culley separately said that Watson is committed to being a Texan. (When pressed to explain that, Culley said several things but not, “He told me so.”)

This isn't a good look for a franchise in such turmoil. It makes it seem as though the coaching staff and front office don't know what they're doing. Of course, the Texans haven't helped themselves at all in terms of perception in recent years, and it's tough to blame Culley too much given he's being thrown to the wolves as the new head coach in this volatile situation.

Regardless of what Culley says in public, other teams are surely still looking to make trade offers for Deshaun Watson. And based on everything coming from his camp, he still wants out.

Stay tuned as this saga continues.