The race is on. Deshaun Watson was cleared of criminal charges on Friday, opening the door for teams to acquire the talented star in a trade. Two top contenders have reportedly emerged: the Carolina Panthers and Seattle Seahawks.
Per NFL insider Aaron Wilson, the Panthers and Seahawks are expected to be top contenders to acquire Watson in a blockbuster trade. Each is in need of a franchise quarterback and has the assets to make a blockbuster deal work.
However, it’s important to note Watson has a no-trade clause. What does that mean? It means he can pick and choose where he’d like to play. The Texans can’t just take the best deal and send Watson on his way. The two sides will have to work together to get a deal done.
“Ultimately, sources predict Carolina Panthers and Seattle Seahawks to be the top contenders for Deshaun Watson in prospective trade. Importance of no-trade clause in his $156 million contract can’t be overstated enough. Fluid situation on destination of three-time Pro Bowl passer,” Wilson tweets.
Ultimately, sources predict Carolina Panthers and Seattle Seahawks to be the top contenders for Deshaun Watson in prospective trade. Importance of no-trade clause in his $156 million contract can’t be overstated enough. Fluid situation on destination of three-time Pro Bowl passer
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 12, 2022
The Seahawks are an intriguing landing spot. They just dealt Russell Wilson to the Broncos with eyes on a rebuild. But trading for Deshaun Watson wouldn’t be a rebuild project.
Experts expect a Watson trade to take place by next Wednesday.
“If the grand jury does not indict Watson on felony charges, he could be traded when the new league year begins next week,” writes Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. “So which teams would be interested?”
Where will Deshaun Watson be playing next season?
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