Report: Deshaun Watson eyeing two NFC teams as potential fits

Deshaun Watson could be the hottest quarterback on the market if his legal trouble is sorted out. As the quarterback expects to play in 2022, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano report that the former Clemson star is eying two NFC squads as potential fits.

“The Texans quarterback, who spent the 2021 season on the team’s active roster but did not play, has begun evaluating potential fits for his services in 2022, with the Buccaneers and Vikings among teams on his radar,” reported Fowler and Graziano. “One source noted that Watson — who has a no-trade clause — is looking for the right blend of offensive system, coaching, talent and, most importantly, the chance to win.”

Moreover, it wasn’t hidden that Watson originally preferred the Miami Dolphins. However, with the firing of Brian Flores and hiring of Mike McDaniel, it seems as if Watson isn’t keen on the AFC East franchise any longer.

“Watson preferred the Dolphins before last November’s trade deadline, according to ESPN’s Chris Mortensen,” wrote Fowler. “But talks didn’t result in a deal, and Miami appears committed to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa playing under new coach Mike McDaniel.”

Evidently, the Buccaneers and Vikings are the franchises on Watson‘s mind. Continuing, Fowler evaluated the potential fit for both teams.

“The Buccaneers will exhaust all options to resolve their quarterback situation after the retirement of Tom Brady,” wrote Fowler. “The goal is to maximize the championship window instead of a rebuild.”

As for Minnesota: “The Vikings have intriguing young pieces in Justin Jefferson and Dalvin Cook, and they face a decision on the contract of Kirk Cousins, a 2023 free agent who has a $45 million cap hit in 2022,” added Fowler. “New coach Kevin O’Connell, however, conveyed a strong belief in Cousins during his interview process with Minnesota, relaying a vision for maximizing his skill set.”

More on Deshaun Watson, possible destinations

While Deshaun Watson is looking towards the NFC, one franchise that won’t be acquiring his services is the New York Giants. Earlier this offseason, rumors ran rampant that Watson was interested by New York, but Giants owner Mara quickly shut down the idea of Watson coming to his franchise.

“We’re not trading for Deshaun Watson,” Mara said. “There are so many reasons why we wouldn’t do that. Cap-wise, we couldn’t afford it but more importantly, with the allegations that are out there right now, that’s just not the right fit for us.”

Watson did not play this season for the Houston Texans after a few off-the-field issues plagued their relationship.

First, and most importantly, the quarterback is still caught in the middle of sexual assault allegations. The NFL has not fully made a ruling on Watson’s status going forward, whether or not he is in Houston or not.

Next, Watson was not happy with how the Texans handled their head coach search last offseason. David Culley ended up getting the nod without approval from the quarterback before getting fired after one season, and Lovie Smith has taken over the job this season. It doesn’t seem to be enough to have peaked the interest of the quarterback.