Texans ‘don’t want’ Teddy Bridgewater, complicating any potential Deshaun Watson trade
It’s no secret that Panthers owner David Tepper wants Deshaun Watson. The franchise owner has reportedly become “obsessed” with acquiring the Texans’ 25-year old quarterback and is ready to do whatever it takes to make a trade if he becomes available.
There are a few problems with this idea. First, Houston’s front office insists that Watson is not going to be dealt, despite Watson making it clear he has no interest in playing another game in a Texans uniform. Even if he was available , the Panthers don’t have the capital or the pieces to compete with clubs like the Dolphins and the Jets – the other two teams most frequently mentioned as potential destinations in any Watson deal.
Add another obstacle to the course. Based on comments John McClain of the Houston Chronicle made on the radio today, it sounds like the Texans really wouldn’t be interested in a Carolina deal. For one, the No. 8 pick they hold isn’t high enough. Apparently, they also don’t want Teddy Bridgewater, who naturally would be a major piece the Panthers try to move in whatever quarterback trade they wind up making.
John McClain on @SportsRadio610: "Why would they trade with the Carolina for the 8th pick? There not going to get a quarterback out of it." — Referring to #Texans trading Deshaun Watson to the #Panthers.
Says #Texans don't want Teddy Bridgewater.
— Panthers On Tap Podcast (@PanthersOnTap) March 2, 2021
Not ideal.
Fans should probably get used to the idea that Watson is not going to be playing for Carolina anytime soon. Even billionaires like Tepper can’t always get what they want and there are simply too many hurdles to get over in regards to landing Watson.
Fortunately there are other good – or at least intriguing – quarterbacks out there who might be on the trade block this offseason. Sam Darnold, Gardner Minshew and Russell Wilson are all worth considering for different reasons. Also, the Panthers may yet find a buyer for Bridgewater.
According to the Athletic, the 49ers are among the teams that have called Carolina about a potential Bridgewater deal. They are looking for a backup behind Jimmy Garoppolo, who’s been slapped with the injury-prone label. While there’s no solid reporting behind it, there are also rumors that the Steelers and Patriots might be interested.
