Deshaun Watson arrives at Texans camp, but Houston open to trade

CLEMSON — Deshaun Watson has arrived in Houston for training camp.

The former Clemson quarterback is hoping he won’t be with the Texans for much longer, though. The 12th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft has played four seasons in the league but made his intentions clear he wanted to be traded in January. If Watson had not reported to training camp, he would have been fined $50,000 a day.

The relationship between Watson and the Texans organization has grown tense since Houston hired general manager Nick Caserio and head coach David Culley. This comes after a tumultuous offseason where 23 civil lawsuits were filed against the quarterback. The active lawsuits now stand at 22 and allege sexual assault and inappropriate behavior against Watson.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapport and Tom Pelissero each reported Monday that the Texans met with Watson on Sunday. Houston is willing to accept a trade involving its former first-round pick, but the price is high. Pelissero tweeted that three first-round picks and more will probably be the expectation when fielding offers. ESPN’s Chris Mortensen reported the asking price is five high draft picks and starting-caliber players.

Quincy Avery, Watson’s quarterback coach, joined the Adam Schefter Podcast on Friday.

“I’m 100% sure he’ll be traded at some point in the coming future,” Avery said. “I think the Texans have made the decision to move on. He doesn’t want to be there, they’re ready to move on; all they’re waiting for is fair market value for him, and they’ll get a lot.”

A three-time Pro Bowler and the NFL’s leader in passing this past season, Watson has denied the allegations, stating that the claims are a failed blackmail attempt. All of the lawsuits have been represented by Houston lawyer Tony Buzbee. The Houston Police Department announced on April 2 it was opening a criminal investigation after a complaint was filed against the quarterback.

Possible landing spots for Watson reportedly include the Philadelphia Eagles, Miami Dolphins and Denver Broncos. During his time at Clemson, Watson led the Tigers to their second national championship in school history, winning the 2017 College Football Playoff against Alabama. He was a two-time finalist for the Heisman Trophy.

If Watson will even play this season remains unknown. The NFL office has not announced a suspension, but the league could step in and put him on the commissioner’s exempt list. Watson would be paid if he is put on the list, but he would not be allowed to practice or participate or attend games. He can be present at the facility for meetings and workouts.

Deshaun Watson arrived at Houston’s training camp Sunday to avoid a fine. Now he will wait to see if he is traded before the start of the season.