Houston Texans 'willing to wait' on potential Deshaun Watson trade

While rumors persist of a Deshaun Watson trade being imminent, the Houston Texans are biding their time. Amidst the controversy surrounding their star quarterback, the franchise is willing to see things through.

“The Texans were willing, and are willing to listen to offers for Deshaun Watson. But the price is going to be high,” said NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. “Three first-round picks and more, at least.

“The price has not changed. The Texans stance has not changed. If they don’t get the price that they want, then they are willing to wait.”

Evidently, a trade doesn’t seem like something that’s happening as quick as Watson may prefer. Still, the possibility remains on the table for the former Clemson star.

Continuing, Pelissero mentions that teams prefer that Watson remains with Houston while he resolves his off the field issues. Moreover, he states that we could wait until spring 2022 before a Watson trade materializes.

“There are teams that would prefer, perhaps Watson’s available come 2022, that the Texans hold him in one way or another on the roster this season,” said Pelissero. “Whether he’s playing or not. 

“And would maybe like to make a move next spring, when some of the other things off the field and the serious legal situation have been resolved.”

Deshaun Watson Trade: Miami Dolphins Frontrunner?

While the Texans are willing to wait, reports from last week indicate that situation could be nearing an end. The Miami Dolphins, despite having  a young quarterback in Tua Tagovailoa, appear to be emerging as the frontrunner.

“Sources tell Yahoo Sports the Dolphins have emerged as the frontrunner in trade discussions with the Texans for QB Deshaun Watson,” said Yahoo NFL reporter Charles Robinson. “The Texans are seeking 3 first-round picks and 2 second-round picks in negotiations.”

Multiple teams are involved in trade talks for Watson around the league. At least three additional teams were in discussions at some point, but Watson holds some power.

“Sources said the Panthers, Broncos and Eagles were also in some element of trade consideration,” Robinson tweeted. “But Watson’s contractual right to approve the trade destination – which was signed off on by Houston ownership in his last extension – has weighed heavily in trade opportunities.”

In light of Watson’s offseason accusations of sexual assault, teams are looking for some sort of protections in any potential trades, Robinson said.

“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 FBY, Harris County prosecutor and Houston PD, into sexual assault allegations from multiple women,” Robinson tweeted.

On3’s Simon Gibbs contributed to this article.