With the NFL trade deadline roughly a week away, Deshaun Watson is suddenly weighing "multiple options" with regard to where he will "play next."
According to ESPN, the embattled quarterback is receiving more offers from teams ahead of the deadline. Watson, 26, has a no-trade clause in his contract that he is reportedly willing to waive for a move to a team he sees as a fit.
The Clemson product continues to be tied to the Miami Dolphins, who are 1-6 with Tua Tagovailoa under center.
FOX's Jay Glazer reports the #Dolphins are "very heavily engaged" on Deshaun Watson, and that the #Texans are telling other teams "you've got to beat Miami's offer." #NFL
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) October 24, 2021
The Athletic added that the Panthers, who have been dismal with Sam Darnold as their QB1, have also become involved in the Deshaun Watson sweepstakes.
The Panthers benched Sam Darnold early in the fourth quarter against the Giants.
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) October 25, 2021
Carolina is expected to be involved in the Deshaun Watson conversation leading into the trade deadline, sources tell @josephperson.https://t.co/YPkZ54CnzC
On one hand, a big trade seems like a long time coming since Watson first requested a release from the Texans back in January.
It is concerning, however, that multiple teams are interested in a player facing the allegations Watson is up against right now. Watson is still facing 22 counts of sexual misconduct and, per The Athletic, has yet to meet with the NFL as the FBI continues to investigate the allegations.
It also isn't clear how soon he could take the field once traded.
A note here for all those who have wondered if Deshaun Watson would land on the commissioner's exempt list if he gets traded. All indications are his status wouldn't change. He'd be available to play as his legal situation unfolds. https://t.co/Jg3UjQ4pMf
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) October 24, 2021
The NFL trade deadline is 4:00 p.m. ET on Nov. 2.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!