Much of the focus during the offseason has been on contract negotiations involving Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. However, it’s Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson that could cash in with an even bigger record-setting deal this summer.
Deshaun Watson contract update
The Houston Texans picked up Deshaun Watson’s fifth-year option in April, ensuring their star quarterback would remain in town through the 2021 season. Both sides have negotiated a massive extension and the details on the eventual deal are starting to come out.
According to ProFootballTalk’s Mike Florio, Watson is pushing for just a three-year extension to keep him in Houston through 2024. It would also let him test free agency before his age-30 season, creating an opportunity to cash in once more. The 24-year-old quarterback is reportedly expected to get it and when the deal is signed, per Florio, it could be worth around $38 million per season.
Watson, coming off a 2019 season that saw him carry the Texans to the playoffs, threw for 3,852 yards, rushed for 413 yards and compiled 34 total touchdowns last year. Capable of making absurd plays at any moment, Houston is determined to keep its franchise quarterback.
While he wanted to wait until Prescott signed a contract extension, it now seems likely that the Cowboys’ star will play on the franchise tag. If that’s the case, Watson will be the first quarterback in Texas to sign and he’ll become the highest-paid NFL player once he does.