Even after Monday’s hearing, the ongoing legal troubles for Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson are far from a conclusion. The same, apparently, can also be said about the Carolina Panthers’ pursuit of him.
According to Aaron Wilson of the Pro Football Network, the Panthers have maintained their interest in the 26-year-old passer. Wilson notes Carolina is one of a few teams keeping tabs on Watson’s situation—despite not being his previously preferred destination.
“A former first-round draft pick from Clemson, Watson wanted to be traded to the Miami Dolphins and was nearly moved,” Wilson writes. “However, the deal unraveled at the trade deadline last season when just 18 of the 22 plaintiffs were willing to agree to settlements. That was a condition from Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, whom sources have emphasized was very interested in trading for Watson. The Dolphins have since moved on and have expressed a commitment to incumbent quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
“NFL teams are keenly aware that Watson’s focus is on his legal situation and are actively monitoring the situation. Among the teams that still have interest in Watson, per sources: the Carolina Panthers.”
Watson is currently facing 22 civil lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct. As a result of the presiding judge’s latest ruling, the three-time Pro Bowler will not be granted a full delay for his deposition.
He will, instead, be expected to testify on the 10 criminal complaints against him following April 1—the date attorney Rusty Hardin believes a decision on the active criminal investigation will be made. And in regards to the other plaintiffs, Watson will testify when Hardin becomes available within the next few weeks.
Simply, Watson’s future is just as cloudy as ever and the Panthers may still be trying to look through it.
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