Deshaun Watson’s conversation with the new Houston Texans coach, David Culley, did not go as well as the organization expected. Watson supposedly reiterated his desire for a trade in a meeting with Culley last Friday, according to ESPN’s Dan Graziano.
Watson reportedly informed the club that he wanted an exchange early in the winter. In January, Culley and Texans general manager Nick Caserio expressed optimism that Watson would remain with the team. Caserio said he “had no interest” in negotiating with Watson, while Culley said he accepted the job knowing Watson would be the team’s quarterback from now on.
Both men made these statements, although they did not speak to Watson at the time of the off-season. Last Friday’s meeting – which supposedly occurred over the phone – it may have been the first time Watson has spoken to any member of the organization since demanding an exchange. It does not seem that Culley was able to convince Watson to change his mind.
Deshaun Watson tweeted about ‘loyalty’ amid commercial drama
The report comes on the same day that Watson cryptically tweeted about “loyalty”. Although the tweet can be interpreted in many ways, it is difficult not to look at it as a comment on Watson’s situation with the Texans.
Loyalty and everything. Never forget that.
– Deshaun Watson (@deshaunwatson) February 25, 2021
It is unclear what will happen to Watson and the Texans moving forward. Watson has made it clear several times that he doesn’t want to play for the Texans. The team can pay its bluff and refuse to deal with it, but it risks Watson not cooperating or not reporting to the team when the camp opens.
Given Watson’s ability, he is expected to cost a bunch of first-round options, if available. Watson is coming out of a season in which he completed 70.2 percent of his passes for 33 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. That performance resulted in Watson reaching the Pro Bowl for the third consecutive season.
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