The Houston Texans continue to deal with a huge distraction in Deshaun Watson.
Yet the team persevered and was able to get off to a 1-0 start with a Week 1 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
That should have spirits high and everyone still supporting Tyrod Taylor in his tough position with the team.
Reports have emerged of the team having a steep asking price for Watson in trade talks.
But any NFL team sending a package of players and picks for the quarterback would need some sort of insurance in case he is ruled ineligible due to all of the legal allegations against him.
Thus, the Texans are stuck with Watson for now and he is a wasted spot on the roster.
For the second straight week, Texans have ruled out QB Deshaun Watson for "not injury related" reasons.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 17, 2021
He is out yet again in what should be a recurring theme all year.
What Comes Next?
The way for the Texans to move on would be via a trade.
Texans Deshaun Watson’s first half numbers: pic.twitter.com/WvNuZkFQwH
— Space Lawyer (@rrossjd) September 12, 2021
As mentioned above, that is just not going to happen until there is more clarity on his legal situation.
The problem that will come up soon is if that situation is not resolved before the trade deadline.
So unless Watson is cleared entirely between now and then, a trade is unlikely.
But even if he is cleared legally, the NFL could still suspend him.
The league will need time as well to determine that as well.
That leaves this entire saga up to the legal process unless the Texans want to use the nuclear option and cut Watson.
Avoiding The Distraction
The players and coaches on the Texans have no choice but to just focus on the season and forget Watson is even there.
Getting into the thick of an NFL season should help make that easier because there is truly no time to worry about anyone not actively helping the team on the field.
Going with a veteran in Taylor as the quarterback was a wise move as well, even if he serves as a downgrade from Watson.
Houston faces a huge test in Week 2 on the road against the Cleveland Browns.
Pulling off a win in that environment without Watson would get the team to 2-0 and would prove to everyone that they are just fine without him.
Is the team better with him on the field in general?
Yes, but not if he has no desire to be there.
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