Four Possible Landing Spots For Deshaun Watson

Deshaun Watson. Those two words in the minds and bottom lines of NFL teams remain a mystery. For many, they see a talented passer, worthy of serious draft capital. At the same time, with his mounting legal issues that hang precariously over his career. Granted, Watson’s talent cannot be denied. Yet, determining his landing spot feels as uncertain as to his legal status. However, in 2022, the Texans quarterback will end up somewhere.

Prison

In all honesty, this remains real, and if, the evidence supports the charges, necessary. If any of these charges stick, Watson will go to jail. Now, what does that potentially look like? First, his NFL career will stall, if not, outright end. If not, then he will rightfully spend his prime in prison. Make no mistake, the odds of someone facing those levels of serious charges will see some sort of jail time. Additionally, if Watson manages to receive a lesser charge, the NFL will no doubt step in and level a serious punishment. Furthermore, what if as part of a plea, he needs to register as a sex offender? Would teams want that to be their brand? Now, all of these scenarios are simultaneously plausible and worrisome. On the other hand, a chance still exists that Watson walks away clean.

Panthers

As of this writing, the Carolina Panthers and their owner, David Tepper began an in-depth vetting and investigation process into possibly acquiring Watson. While the asking price could demand multiple first-round picks, the Panthers are desperate. Sam Darnold did not revive his career in Charlotte. Instead, he shows why his future could be as a backup. Although Cam Newton captured the hearts and emotions of the Carolina faithful, the 2021 version looks like an aged facsimile of his former self. Tepper, a billionaire with little patience, but a vault of money, wants to win now and for the duration. Under those circumstances, pending legal freedom, the Panthers could throw the sink at the Texans. On a lesser, but tangentially important note, Watson grew up in Georgia and starred at Clemson. Going home could see a revitalized player, after a year off.

Buccaneers

After Tom Brady walked into the sunset, the Buccaneers look at their quarterback situation with equal parts confusion and disgust. With Mike Evans and Chris Godwin in tow, the Bucs present a win-now offense that could benefit from Watson seamlessly fitting into Bruce Arians’ offense. Plus, the stout defense gives him to balance that he hasn’t completely seen in the NFL General Manager Jason Licht does not shy away from pulling the trigger on deals that will improve his team. To say nothing of maintaining a vice-like grip on the division. Keeping him from the Panthers and Saints would give Tampa a leg up for the next half-decade or so. The Buccaneers would need to add interior line help.

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Seahawks

Blessed with a bounty of picks, Pete Carroll could unload some of them for Watson, while retaining enough to build around him. The Seahawks make sense with one particular caveat. If they craft a better offensive line around the quarterback. Russell Wilson took more punishment than a Ford Escort. With this in mind, better drafting and free-agent signing around Watson as the centerpiece could help, especially in the loaded NFC West. Additionally, the lure of Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf would thrill anyone. Yet, are the Seahawks in full rebuild mode or simply rearranging the roster for a sooner-than-expected run?

Steelers

Ben Roethlisberger retired, probably too late. Anyway, Pittsburgh needs to keep pace with the Ravens and Bengals. Both offenses, helmed by young quarterbacks will fight for first over the next decade. Watson would thrive. Behind him, Najee Harris powers the run game, forcing defenses to play honestly. On the outside, Chase Claypool’s big-play-in-waiting ability could terrorize secondaries. Most importantly, Mike Tomlin will demand the best from Watson, on the field and off. Giving Watson structure, when he obviously never enjoyed any in Houston, opens doors and brings a dynamic playmaker to Pittsburgh. Watson needs that discipline. Tomlin can manage personalities, but they adjust more to his way than vice versa.

Educated Guess

Pittsburgh and Carolina offer vastly different perks for Deshaun Watson. Pittsburgh offers him stability and structure that he could use right now and in the future. If the legal system clears Watson, wherever he lands will be his final NFL chance. Nevertheless, Carolina gives a player that succeeded on the field, but repeatedly failed off it, something that many people desire: home. Either way, pending the disposition of these legal matters, Watson will stay where he is. Trading for Deshaun Watson will be costly. Teams will need to examine whether to risk it all for a talented player.