Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson had a whirlwind of a year in 2021.
The 25-year-old signed a four-year, $156 million contract at the beginning of the season and was ecstatic about it. But then, mid-season, Houston fired Bill O’Brien as the head coach and general manager — letting go of DeAndre Hopkins wasn’t helpful for him. On top of these two emotional situations, the Texans finished the year off with a disappointing 4-12 record.
Heading into 2021, Watson was reportedly informed by Texans owner Cal McNair that he’d be involved in the general manager and coach hiring process, with the ability to give feedback. Watson reportedly wanted Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy as a head coach candidate and the Texans declined.
The Texans also hired Nick Caserio as the general manager and didn’t inform Watson beforehand. Watson sent a cryptic tweet as soon as the hiring of Caserio was announced saying, “some things never change.”
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Watson hasn’t spoken with the Texans’ front office in a few days, despite getting calls.
Deshaun Watson has not spoken to #Texans brass in the last few days, though they have tried to call him. https://t.co/6ObYHqrdgB
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 8, 2021
There’s been hope from Patriots fans and people around the league that Watson lands in New England next season via trade. The asking price would be extremely high and it’s unlikely that Caserio would immediately come in and send Watson back to the team he knows so well.
It’s unlikely Watson lands in New England, but his future in Houston is extremely murky at the moment.
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