It is pretty clear the Texans are going to get rid of Deshaun Watson before the trade deadline.
Because Watson has a no-trade clause, he can choose where he wants to go. He doesn’t want to go to the Eagles, leaving the Panthers and Dolphins in a bidding war for the quarterback.
The Dolphins seem in the driver seat, but don’t be shocked if the Panthers who just benched Sam Darnold make a late push.
The reason question is if Watson will be eligible to play immediately if traded?
Here is what we know.
The Texans remain hopeful of moving former Pro Bowler Deshaun Watson and several veteran players ahead of the NFL’s looming trade deadline, with Miami still the most aggressive suitor for the quarterback who is facing 22 allegations of sexual assault or sexual misconduct.
Watson will not play or practice for the Texans this season as authorities investigate the widespread allegations against him, but that has not prevented them from engaging in trade talks with a small handful of teams.
The NFL could place Watson on the commissioner’s exempt list should a team acquire him with the intent of playing him; his status with the Texans is akin to being on that list — paid not to play — without the league having to actually apply that roster designation on him.
While there are 22 civil cases and 10 criminal complaints, there have been no official charges, and that loophole might allow Watson to play immediately.
The problem that arises is if Watson is traded and at any time a criminal charge is handed down, what will the NFL do then, they would likely have to put him on the commissioner’s exempt list.
It will be a very interesting week as we inch closer to the trade deadline.
Flip the pages for the latest of Watson.