Hold everything.
FOX Sports NFL insider Jay Glazer pumped the brakes Thursday when it came to rumors the Houston Texans are close to trading quarterback Deshaun Watson.
“The Houston Texans, they’re at standstill, because the Texans still think that Deshaun Watson’s going to end up wanting to play for them this year. ... And all the teams, there have been several teams trying to reach out to them to try to trade for Deshaun Watson, they’re not calling any of them back.”
Two days ago, CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso reported “talks are heating up between #Eagles and #Texans on a Deshaun Watson trade. Still some hurdles to get over. But both sides attempting to come to an agreement.”
However Pro Football Talk shot down that report, saying the Watson trade market is quiet.
On top of that, the Baltimore Sun’s Aaron Wilson reports “No trade imminent or developing at this time for Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, according to league sources. While there is interest and teams are conducting extensive due diligence, complex legal situation, no-trade clause are all difficult factors to work through still.”
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The Philadelphia Eagles have been linked to Watson rumors ever since the 25-year-old requested a trade earlier this year. But the Eagles’ ability to trade for the three-time Pro Bowl selection may have taken a hit earlier this week.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Texans want three first-round picks for Watson. As of right now, the Eagles have two 2022 first-round selections they could use in a trade for Watson: their own and the Miami Dolphins.
In theory the Eagles could pick up a third first-rounder based on the terms of the Carson Wentz trade with the Indianapolis Colts. The Eagles received a conditional second-round draft pick as part of the trade that was completed in February. The selection can become a first-round pick if Wentz plays more than 75% of the snaps, or if Wentz plays 70% of the snaps and the Colts make the playoffs. But Wentz is having foot surgery which will sideline him 5-to-12 weeks, calling into question just how much Wentz will be able to play in 2021.
It’s possible the Wentz pick might not matter if the Eagles want to trade for Watson because ESPN’s Chris Mortensen spoke with two league executives who said the asking price is a combination of five high picks and/or starting-caliber players.
Watson reported to Texans training camp last week amid sexual misconduct allegations by more than 20 women, prompting the NFL to release a statement addressing his availability. Per ESPN:
“The NFL’s review of the serious allegations against Deshaun Watson remains ongoing and active. We are working cooperatively with the Houston Police Department and ensuring that the NFL’s inquiry does not interfere with their investigation. As we continue to gather additional information and monitor law enforcement developments, we will make appropriate decisions consistent with the Collective Bargaining Agreement and the Personal Conduct Policy. At this time, there are no restrictions on Watson’s participation in club activities.”
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