Report: Browns to Trade for Texans QB Deshaun Watson

The Cleveland Browns will trade for quarterback Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, according to a report by Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Before Friday, the two teams most likely to get Watson were reportedly the Atlanta Falcons and the New Orleans Saints. However, Watson reportedly had a change of heart and informed the Texans that he wants to play for the Browns. Thus, he will waive his no-trade clause to play for Cleveland.

Watson will be getting a new deal. It will be a 6-year, $230 million contract that will smash the record for most guaranteed money ever in an NFL contract. According to Schefter, the entire $230 million contract is guaranteed.

According to Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports, the Texans will acquire three first-round picks and two more picks from the Browns in exchange for Watson. With Watson now being the quarterback of the Browns, it will pave the way for Baker Mayfield’s trade request to be accommodated as well.

Watson sat the entire 2021 season after being accused of sexual assault, but was one of the league’s best passers the year prior. He threw for a league-leading 4,823 yards with 33 touchdowns. Charges were not brought against Watson after a grand jury hearing in Texas last week. Civil lawsuits, as well as potential NFL punishment, are still pending.

The quarterbacks the Steelers will now face in the division twice a year are Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, and Watson.