According to Texans General Manager Nick Caserio, the Houston Texans have agreed to trade quarterback Deshaun Watson to the Cleveland Browns.
On Friday, Watson shared a modified photo of himself in a Browns uniform on Instagram with the comment, “Cleveland, LETSSSS GOOOO!! #DawgPound Ready To Work!”
Watson was not charged with harassment or sexual misconduct by a Harris County grand jury last week. Watson is still facing 22 civil cases, many of which accuse him of sexual misconduct and assault.
The NFL is also looking into the accusations, and if Watson is found to have broken any rules, he will almost certainly be suspended.
Caserio said in a statement, “I felt it was the right move for our organisation as we head into the new league year focused on building our roster for the 2022 season.”
Watson reportedly told the Texans that he is willing to waive his no-trade clause in exchange for a five-year, $230 million contract from the Browns, according to NFL.com. According to ESPN, that would be the highest guaranteed sum ever granted to an NFL player.
The NFL is also looking into the accusations, and if Watson is found to have broken any rules, he will almost certainly be suspended.
Caserio said in a statement, “I felt it was the right move for our organization as we head into the new league year focused on building our roster for the 2022 season.”
Watson reportedly told the Texans that he is willing to waive his no-trade clause in exchange for a five-year, $230 million contract from the Browns, according to NFL.com. According to ESPN, that would be the highest guaranteed sum ever granted to an NFL player.
Watson and a fifth-round pick in 2024 were traded by the Texans to the Browns in exchange for a first-round pick in each of the next three draughts, a 2023 third-round pick, and a 2024 fourth-round pick.
In a statement, NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy said, “Any transaction would have no effect on the NFL’s ongoing and comprehensive investigation of the serious allegations against Deshaun Watson.” “Nor would it affect his status under the Collective Bargaining Agreement and the Personal Conduct Policy.”
“If the league’s investigation determines that Watson violated the Personal Conduct Policy, discipline may be imposed pursuant to the policy and the CBA.”
Cal McNair, the Texans’ Chief Executive Officer, stated the team made the best option for both the short and long future.
“We’re confident in our plan to build a championship program that can sustain success and our entire organization is excited to move forward together,” he said.
The Browns have been reached by CNN for comment.
Baker Mayfield, the current Browns starting quarterback, requested a trade from the organisation on Thursday, according to NFL.com and ESPN. According to NFL.com, the Browns do not intend to honour Mayfield’s trade request.
Watson told reporters in Houston that he was ready to return to the field after a grand jury declined to indict him.
“It’s definitely a very emotional moment for me. I know we’re far from being done of handling what we need to handle (legally),” Watson said. “I thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for letting the truth be heard.”
Watson is a three-time Pro Bowl selection for the Houston Texans in his five seasons with the team. Due to the ongoing investigation into the claims, he did not play in the 2021 season.
Next season, the Browns will meet the Texans in Houston. The game’s date and time are yet to be determined.