While Mitchell Trubisky appears like the safest bet to be the first quarterback taken in the 2017 NFL Draft, there are some analysts who believe Deshaun Watson has a chance to capture that honor. And if Trubisky is chosen ahead of Watson, the former Clemson star believes the team who picks him will be making a major mistake.
In an appearance on Tuesday’s edition NFL Network’s “Good Morning Football,” Watson warned NFL teams that there will be “consequences” if they choose another quarterback over him.
“You’re gonna have to live with the consequences that come with it. That’s how I see it,” Watson said. “I try to stay in my lane. I try not to take the path. I respect Mitch and what he’s done and all the hype he’s getting, but at the same time, my result speaks for itself. I feel like I’ve accomplished everything that I could. I guess if that’s who they’re gonna roll with, so be it.”
The Cleveland Browns are said to be high on Trubisky, and they have the No. 1 overall pick. However, there has reportedly been an internal struggle going on between ownership and the coaching staff, with the latter wanting to select defensive star Myles Garrett.
If the Browns pick Garrett at No. 1, both Trubisky and Watson will likely be gone by the time they’re up again at No. 12. Cleveland could look to trade up from the No. 12 spot if they want Trubisky badly enough, but they would need to get up to at least No. 5 so they can pick ahead of the New York Jets, who also need a QB.
Watson is not the first top NFL Draft prospect to issue a warning to NFL teams, and he won’t be the last. His performance in leading Clemson to a comeback over Alabama in the National Championship Game has boosted his stock, though it remains to be seen just how far.
