Deshaun Watson trade rumors: Carolina Panthers eyeing superstar QB

The Carolina Panthers are quietly keeping an eye on Deshaun Watson, according to NBC Sports. The Houston Texans have been shopping their star quarterback for months, but haven’t found an offer they like. Watson, 25, made a formal and public request to be traded this offseason.

The Panthers already acquired Jets quarterback Sam Darnold this offseason, but apparently are still in search of a long-term starter. Watson certainly has the skill to fit that bill, as he led the NFL with 4,823 passing yards in 2020.

Normally teams would be lining up to land a player of Watson’s caliber. However, 10 women filed complaints of sexual assault against Watson to the Houston police, providing a major impediment to his value.

The Texans received plenty of flack when they traded star receiver DeAndre Hopkins to the Cardinals last season. They received running back David Johnson and draft picks in return. GM Nick Caserio is apparently worried of making another trade that will “in hindsight look like he’s been fleeced.”

With Houston taking a much more cautious approach to dealing Watson, will he be traded before the season?

The right fit?

It’s unclear how many other teams have interest in the former Clemson star, who is entering his fifth NFL season. The Colts are the most obvious team with a glaring need after Carson Wentz suffered a foot injury requiring surgery. The Vikings could be another option. Minnesota coach Mike Zimmer has voiced his frustrations with Kirk Cousins in the past. Watson would be interesting on the Vikings, who already have receivers Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson.

As much as Caserio would prefer to wait on the best deal, that may not be an option. Watson is set to receive a massive raise in 2022, going from $10.5 million a season to $35 million. The Texans need to find a team willing to take on such a salary, which could be challenging.

The situation is messy to say the least. Watson clearly wants out as relations between him and the organization’s leadership have grown sour. There’s also the issue of the legal accusations against him.

Given that Deshaun Watson is currently listed as the No. 4 quarterback on Houston’s depth chart, a deal seems likely to happen sooner than later. Could we see him donning Carolina blue in 2021?

Photo courtesy of Carmen Mandato/Getty Images.