In order for the Houston Texans to finally complete a trade that sends quarterback Deshaun Watson to a new NFL city, a huge hurdle must be cleared.
According to John McClain of the Houston Chronicle, teams that are interested in making a deal with the Texans, including the Miami Dolphins, want the three-time Pro Bowler’s legal issues resolved.
The legal issues are more severe than the nonpayment of a jewelry bill. Watson has been named as a defendant in a lawsuit wherein 22 women allege he committed sexual assault. The NFL is currently investigating the matter, and 10 criminal complaints have been filed with the Houston Police Department. There is concern that Watson would be placed on the commissioner’s exempt list after his new team gave up a boatload of picks for the reigning NFL passing champion.
Goodell says the league is not at a point to put Deshaun Watson on the Commissioner’s Exempt list because it does not have enough information from law enforcement. “We don’t feel we have that necessary information at this point.”
Translation: He could play now.
— Ben Volin (@BenVolin) October 26, 2021
The Carolina Panthers are a team that has entered the talks after their 25-3 loss to the New York Giants in Week 7. Josina Anderson has also reported that other teams are interested.
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