(SportsRadio 610) -- Before Texans players take the practice field for the first time at training camp Wednesday morning, the obvious question is where will they have Deshaun Watson.
The fifth-year quarterback is under criminal, civil and an NFL investigation after 22 lawsuits were filed accusing him of sexual assault and harassment during massage therapy sessions. That began to unfold in March, but Watson had already requested a trade from the Texans earlier this year when they hired general manager Nick Caserio and head coach David Culley.
Watson, through legal representation, has denied any wrongdoing. The investigations are ongoing, and the NFL released a statement Tuesday saying "there are no restrictions on Watson's participation in club activities."
There is a moral argument of whether it's appropriate for Watson to be at a camp, and if it's better for the Texans to send him on paid leave to avoid the optics of having him there, given the seriousness of the allegations.
Watson showed up Monday when quarterbacks and rookies reported to camp, reportedly to avoid $50,000 daily fines, but still holding the stance of wanting to be traded.
If the Texans intend to trade Watson eventually, which most believe they do, it seems to make sense for both sides to at least keep him away from the facility.
That avoids the awkwardness of having a visible disgruntled player, who'd otherwise be a leader on the team, representing the team while embroiled in serious legal entanglements.
But as the NFL noted, there are no restrictions, and he is free to play.
Unless the Texans say otherwise.
Caserio will address media members Wednesday morning at 8:45 a.m. You can listen to him live on SportsRadio 610 and Audacy.
Head coach David Culley and Texans players will speak to reporters after practice later in the morning.
