Things are coming to a head in Deshaun Watson’s trade talks. His camp ruled out the Cleveland Browns on Thursday, and it’s starting to sound like the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons are on top of his list of preferred landing spots — something Watson can control given the no-trade clause written into his contract.
Despite having committed more time to recruiting Watson than anyone, the Carolina Panthers appear to be slipping back behind the pack. The Athletic’s Joe Person reports that the Panthers would need a “Hail Mary” to pull off the trade, despite having committed more time to recruiting Watson than anyone.
So it comes down to the Saints, a team ready to win now with Watson, and the Falcons, the still-rebuilding team he grew up supporting. Of course it comes down to two of the NFL’s most fervent rivals. After flying out to Atlanta for a meeting with Falcons brass on Wednesday (all past meetings with teams happened in Houston), Watson joined the Saints that evening for a second meeting.
It’s a high-stakes situation. Watson has been one of the NFL’s most skilled young quarterbacks, but he’s expected to face a suspension during the 2022 season for conduct detrimental to the league stemming from the 22 allegations of sexual misconduct made against him. Beyond the negative public reaction that would draw from fans, it would be tough for any team to compete this year if he’s missing a full month or two of the season, if not longer.
Watson is actively reviewing his options and a final decision is anticipated soon. Watch this space for updates.
