The Patriots won the NFL trade deadline without making a move. Heading into Tuesday, there was ample speculation the Dolphins would acquire Deshaun Watson, who’s been a healthy scratch all season. While Watson is hampered with legal woes, the superstar quarterback will play football again. It would’ve been potentially franchise-breaking to see him resurrect his career in Miami, while Josh Allen leads the Bills for years to come.
But the Patriots avoided that nightmare scenario. Until the Dolphins get a new quarterback, they’re not going to seriously compete for a playoff spot.
The Texans could explore trading Watson again this offseason. By then, perhaps we will have more clarity about his legal situation. There are 22 active lawsuits against Watson with allegations of sexual assault or sexually inappropriate behavior during massage sessions. At the NFL meetings, commissioner Roger Goodell said the league doesn’t have enough information to place Watson on the exempt list.
It’s been a quiet few months for Watson, who demanded a trade just six months after inking a four-year, $156 million extension with the Texans. Obviously, some of his leverage has evaporated. Still, he’s one of the best quarterbacks in the game.
The Patriots appear to building a nice offense with Mac Jones. Once again, they rushed for over 100 yards Sunday, while Josh McDaniels continues to open up his passing playbook. Through eight games, Jones has completed 69.1 percent of his passes for 1,997 yards, nine touchdowns and six picks. He’s playing like the best rookie quarterback. But Watson is one of the best quarterbacks, period.
Miami owner Stephen Ross made the final decision to not move forward with a deal, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The lawyer for Watson’s accusers say the Dolphins wanted every case to be settled before moving forward. That “wasn’t gonna happen,” he said.
While Ross made the proper call, his reluctance could’ve cost the Dolphins their chance at landing a franchise QB. There will likely be more interest around Watson this offseason, or he might even stay in Houston. The variables increase as more time passes.
Having Watson, who led the NFL in passing yards last season, playing in the division would’ve been a scary proposition. The Dolphins may be 1-7, but they have several skilled receivers, including Jaylen Waddle, DeVante Parker and former Texan Will Fuller. Watson’s presence would undoubtedly elevate them past Tua Tagovailoa’s shallow ceiling.
Despite beating the Patriots, it’s apparent the Dolphins are a hapless team without clear direction. Watson would’ve instantly changed that. Without him, they’re still in the Patriots’ rearview mirror, at least for now.