When it comes to trading quarterbacks, one option sometimes makes the most sense. Don’t.
Deshaun Watson is reportedly unhappy in Houston. It might be due to the team’s performance this year, and it certainly is his concern about organizational culture.
Any pro team player would be unhappy if they finished with the Texans’ 2020 record–third in the division and 4-12 overall. And Watson wants more of a say in the team’s direction, including having input on personnel choices (GM and head coach). That said, Watson is committed to the team by way of a large-number contract.
There’s no question that the team wants Watson; he’s their franchise quarterback. Double-digit wins in ’18 and ’19 are the reasons why.
If Watson wants out, other teams seem interested, including the New York Giants, the Miami Dolphins, and (as I wrote a few days ago) the New England Patriots. Of those three, the second option seems most toothy–Miami giving the Texans Tua Tagovailoa and a draft pick in exchange for Watson’s services. But, still, I don’t see any evidence that the Texans are shopping Watson around.
There’s a delicate matter, though: the Texans lost big-time in 2020 as Watson’s numbers were great. 2020 was his best year, not only by stats but by Watson’s own admission. It was the second time in Watson’s career as the Texans’ QB that that team ended up 4-12. They were 4-12 in his inaugural season, too. But after that, the team went 11-5 and 10-5.
Personally, I would hate to see Watson leave Texas. He needs to reset his feet and return to previous success. It’s possible, too.
Sometimes players change teams like the rest of us change shirts. And it leaves fans with broken hearts and unanswered questions. In the sports world of loyalty vs. money and heart over dollar signs, we sometimes feel as though we’re drifting in the turbulent waters of a raging river.
In football terms, Watson leaving would mean a start-over for the Texans. It would also be a risk for his inbound club.
Miami just got started with Tua (with Fitzpatrick there, too), and Jones just got the keys in New York. Yes, NE needs a signal-caller, too, but as I wrote recently, Jarrett Stidham is waiting in the wings.
I know: 2021 looks to be daunting for all those clubs. But there’s a case to be made–I think a strong case, too–for why all of those clubs should stay the course with the current trajectory in place.
Shopping around for next year’s quarterback may seem to be the way to go, but there’s another option–an elementary option. It’s getting better with the QBs you have.
