Texans Pro Bowl quarterback Deshaun Watson, amidst legal issues and a standing trade request, isn't practicing for the second consecutive day at training camp.
Further tests of Watson's right leg revealed lingering calf and ankle tightness, according to league sources. The injury isn't regarded as major or long term and his status is regarded as day-to day and expected to improve with ongoing treatment. Watson is being precautionary given his unresolved trade request and desire to not play for the Texans again.
When asked if Watson's presence is strange for the team, Texans offensive coordinator Tim Kelly replied: "Not for us. .. For us, we're worried about the guys who are out there practicing. That's all we can control is getting those three guys (Tyrod Taylor, Davis Mills, Jeff Driskel) ready to go."
Although teams are interested in Watson and conducting their due diligence, including researching his 22 civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and or sexual misconduct and 10 complaints being investigated by the Houston Police Department, no deal is imminent or developing. Watson led the NFL in passing yardage last season and has a no-trade clause in his $156 million contract.
He reported to camp to avoid accruing daily $50,000 fines. Teammates, including Tyrod Taylor and Whitney Mercilus, have expressed support for Watson and appear to be compartmentalizing their friendship with him, his exit strategy and emphasize they are not distracted by this unprecedented and awkward situation.
Kelly added that Watson has provided a positive resource to his fellow quarterbacks.
"Absolutely, he's been a great asset for us in the room with some of the stuff how he sees it, how he sees the intent of the plays," Kelly said. "It's been great. He's been very helpful to those players. Again, we're doing a good job of keeping him engaged and going through some different stuff with him. He's been good for those players."
Aaron Wilson has covered the NFL for 20 seasons, including the Texans, Baltimore Ravens, Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars. He has previously written for The Houston Chronicle and The Baltimore Sun. He’s on Twitter: @AaronWilson_NFL and Instagram: @aaronwilson7128.