Of course, that launched a flurry of speculation and trade scenarios on social media, mostly by fans who believe their teams should be on the phones immediately trying to strike some sort of deal with the Texans. That includes San Francisco 49ers fans, who, according to a recent poll, might be willing to sacrifice the future for the chance of adding a dynamic player like Watson.
ESPN's Adam Schefter stated that Watson's anger level following a trade that sent wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins to the Arizona Cardinals last offseason was at a two. The quarterback's displeasure is at an all-time high right now.
ESPN's Chris Mortensen adds that Watson might consider a trade to the Miami Dolphins, with Tua Tagovailoa and additional draft compensation headed to the Texans.
CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora reportedly had a few exchanges with NFL executives who feel a deal between the Texans and the 49ers could take place should the situation with Watson "go nuclear." It would involve quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and "several high picks" going to Houston in exchange for Watson (h/t to Patrick Tulini for the find).
La Canfora notes that a trade with the 49ers would get Watson out of the AFC and reunite Garoppolo with new Texans general manager Nick Caserio, who was the director of player personnel in New England when Garoppolo was drafted.
Of course, Garoppolo has a no-trade clause in his contract and would need to agree to any trade. The salary-cap hit for parting ways with Garoppolo is minimal compared to the quarterback's average salary.
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