Deshaun Watson has been in a holding pattern since he was accused of sexual assault by nearly two dozen women last year. The Houston Texans star still wants a trade, but teams have been hesitant due to the lack of clarity with his legal situation. That should change when prosecutors complete their investigation.
Watson is facing civil lawsuits from 22 women who claim he sexually assaulted them during massage therapy treatments. Several of the women filed criminal complaints, but a grand jury has yet to decide whether Watson will be charged. According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, the pending civil cases will not deter interested teams.
A source told Florio that multiple teams are willing to trade for Watson once the criminal situation is resolved. The NFL will conduct its own investigation after the grand jury reaches its decision. Watson seems likely to face a suspension regardless of the criminal outcome, but it does not sound like teams are overly concerned about that.
Florio also notes that the Carolina Panthers were willing to trade for Watson even with the criminal investigation ongoing. Watson has a no-trade clause and would not waive it for the Panthers, however.
One NFL insider this week floated an interesting theory about where Watson could end up. Watson would have to approve any trade, but a deal could come together quickly if he is cleared criminally.
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
