NEWSLETTER
I’m unsure if we’re getting closer to the end of Deshaun Watson Trade Watch, which has been going on since January.
But perhaps business will pick up soon:
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
Charles Robinson of Yahoo! Sports hears the Dolphins are popping up as front-runners to trade for Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson. The cost of doing business in a trade reportedly remains large. Houston is reportedly requesting three first-round picks and a pair of second-rounders. For what it’s worth, Miami has two first-rounders in 2022, as well as another pair in 2023. With that type of draft capital and second-year player Tua Tagovailoa as a possible trade chip, it makes sense for the Dolphins to be an emerging team to acquire Watson. But let’s be real with each other. These aren’t the only considerations to keep in mind regarding this situation.
It is impossible (and irresponsible) to write about a hypothetical Watson trade without mentioning the 22 lawsuits from women alleging misconduct. These are serious allegations that shouldn’t be brushed over. Clearly, this is something teams are taking into consideration as they weigh making a move for Watson. Even still … that teams are using this matter to possibly bring down trade costs feels cringe.
Following this storyline has been a rollercoaster. Franchises have been keeping tabs on this situation since January. And there were times when Houston was dodging trade talks, only to later send out mixed messages about the possibility of cutting a deal. Rumors of the Bears’ interest in Watson fell off after the sexual assault allegations came to the forefront. But teams elsewhere were showing interest, with Watson still reporting to Texans camp and holding a hold-in while never backing off his trade request.
The Bears — once seen as a viable option to deal for Watson — have obviously moved on. However, a possible Watson remains worth monitoring. A player with Watson’s on-field résumé could still yield a seismic trade return. One that could impact the NFL for years to come.
