The Texans aren't planning to have disgruntled Pro Bowl quarterback Deshaun Watson travel for their preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.
Watson has a standing trade request and doesn't want to play for the Texans again and no trade is imminent or developing at this time, according to league sources not authorized to speak publicly.
Watson, who has a no-trade clause in his $156 million contract, has practiced the past two days after missing five practices with calf and ankle tightness.
"It's day to day with him and he'd been out for a while and he's back today and we're taking it day to day with," Texans coach David Culley said. "Well, he's unlikely to play in the game for sure. It's based off the fact the limited reps he's had in practice so far."
Culley replied "no comment" when asked if Watson will play in any preseason games.
Other than being back on the field, it's the status quo with Watson, who is still dealing with some tightness in his leg.
Watson, who is facing 22 civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and or sexual misconduct and 10 complaints being investigated by the Houston Police Department, first asked for a trade in January due to discontent with the organization. That stance hasn't changed.
Where all of this leaves Watson and the Texans is in a holding pattern.
Texans general manager Nick Caserio wants to be sure he gets maximum value in exchange for Watson in any prospective trade. And Watson will be extremely picky about whom he waives that no-trade clause for. The Miami Dolphins are believed to be atop Watson’s wish list for a potential trade. The Philadelphia Eagles and Carolina Panthers are among the other potential landing destinations for Watson.
The Texans are unwilling to lower their demands for Watson and want three first-round draft picks, two second-round draft picks, and two starters in exchange for the former Clemson consensus All-American and national champion.
Aaron Wilson has covered the NFL for 20 years and has previously written for The Houston Chronicle and The Baltimore Sun. He’s on Twitter: @AaronWilson_NFL and Instagram: @aaronwilson7128