What was assumed to be true was confirmed Wednesday.
The Houston Texans have listed wantaway quarterback Deshaun Watson as a fourth-stringer on their first unofficial depth chart ahead of Saturday's preseason opener at the Green Bay Packers:
The Texans’ unofficial depth chart (that says it is updated by @TexansPR), lists Deshaun Watson as the Texans’ fourth quarterback. pic.twitter.com/llKMW7C3zE
— Sarah Barshop (@sarahbarshop) August 11, 2021
Veteran and presumed QB1 Tyrod Taylor should see some action in Green Bay, but Jeff Driskel and Davis Mills will likely take the majority of the snaps to keep Taylor free of any injury concerns. Watson, meanwhile, isn't expected to travel for the exhibition matchup.
John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reported Monday that Watson "will never play another down for the Texans" as the 25-year-old still wishes to be traded but is facing 22 lawsuits alleging acts of sexual assault and misconduct and 10 criminal complaints. It's assumed no team will meet Houston's reported asking price of three first-round draft picks for Watson without having a guarantee he won't be made unavailable to play via the commissioner's exempt list before Week 1 of the regular season.
Watson playing for the Texans this month benefits nobody, so patience remains a virtue for all involved until a meaningful update on his legal situation emerges.
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