NFL Rumors: Deshaun Watson Trade Update, Texans Could Target Veteran QB

Things have gotten a lot more complicated for the Houston Texans since Deshaun Watson requested a trade during this past season’s playoffs. The quarterback now faces 21 lawsuits for sexual misconduct and assault as the organization ponders making a franchise-altering move.

Before the allegations against Watson became known, Houston was not ready to trade its superstar. That reportedly hasn’t changed yet with the Texans still not engaging in trade talks.

NFL teams are still calling Houston in regard to a trade for Watson, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. With the looming possibility that Watson’s off-the-field issues might result in a suspension for the upcoming season, it’s becoming more likely that the Texans won’t make any decision about Watson’s future with the team until 2022.

The #Texans still haven’t engaged in trade talks, but they continue to get calls about Deshaun Watson. And if it becomes clear Watson won’t be there — via trade, holdout or otherwise — don’t rule out Alex Smith landing in Houston. @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/q1yPLMBOTU
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) April 2, 2021

Houston has added quarterback depth in case it needs a new starter for the 2021 season. At the start of free agency, the Texans signed Tyrod Taylor, one of the best backup quarterbacks in the NFL.

There’s a chance that Houston isn’t done acquiring quarterbacks. Alex Smith could land with the Texans, according to Pelissero, as the veteran signal caller continues to search for a job.

The Washington Football Team released Smith after the 2020 season. The quarterback still believes he can be a starter, despite struggling in his first season back from a devastating leg injury. Smith had six passing touchdowns, eight interceptions and a 78.5 passer rating in eight games, though he did go 5-1 as a starter.

New Texans head coach David Culley was an assistant coach with the Kansas City Chiefs from 2013-2016 when Smith was the team’s starter.

Watson has denied the allegations made against him.

Watson was one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks in the 2020 season. The 25-year-old is under contract through the 2025 season.