Deshaun Watson has significant power over his trade destination, and a new report suggests he has used it to narrow his list of suitors to two.
In an appearance on WFNZ in Charlotte, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle said Watson has “rejected” all but the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers, suggesting that one of those two teams is likely to be his ultimate destination. Watson has a full no-trade clause, so he can block a trade to any team if he wishes.
“He’s rejected everybody but Carolina and New Orleans.”
– @McClain_on_NFL to me just now on @wfnz re: Deshaun Watson’s next destination.
— Kyle Bailey (@KyleBaileyClub) March 14, 2022
Interestingly, if true, this means Watson has rejected the Seattle Seahawks, who were rumored to be a leading contender to trade for the Houston Texans quarterback. It is unclear if Watson could open himself up to other teams again if his meetings with New Orleans and Carolina go poorly.
This does echo an earlier report suggesting that the Panthers and Saints were the leading contenders for Watson. If everyone else is out, that certainly changes the landscape.
Photo: Jan 27, 2019; Orlando, FL, USA; AFC quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) in the NFL Pro Bowl football game at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
