What Could a Trade for Deshaun Watson Look Like for the Steelers?

Friday afternoon, Houston Texans' quarterback Deshaun Watson was cleared of the numerous sexual assault allegations that had hovered around his name for over a year now. With the Pittsburgh Steelers on the market for a quarterback and the Texans looking to trade the young star, what could a potential trade for Watson look like for the Steelers?

Draft picks

The most significant task on the Texans' list of "wants" for Watson will be draft picks. According to NBC Sports, the asking price has not lowered even after 22 women accused Watson of sexual assault. The initial asking price for Watson starts off with three first-round draft picks and has been reiterated as recently as February 21st that the Texans do not plan on moving Watson for anything less than that.

Right now, the Steelers have four first-round and four second-round picks from 2022-2025, all of which could be a part of a trade package to Houston for Watson. If picks are all the Texans want, the Steelers could quickly move a few to grab a generational talent like Watson.

Young players and cap space

Another want for Houston could be players, more specifically, young players. The Steelers have many young, talented players such as TJ Watt, Najee Harris, and others, though whether or not the team is willing to move them is another question altogether. If the Texans come asking for one of these young stars, the Steelers will have a big decision to make.

One thing to remember with players like Najee Harris is that he is turning 24 years old this year, very old for a rookie, and running backs do not have a very long shelf life in today's league. Watson, 26, may be a wiser investment than hanging onto a talented player at a less-important position, though until the Texans ask, Harris should be off-limits.

It would likely come down to a package like the Broncos sent for Russell Wilson. Likely three first round picks, and 2 seconds, along with a players like Chase Claypool, and Alex Highsmith. Diontae Johnson could be someone else they would be interested in.

Watson also comes with a hefty price tag. Over the next few years, Watson will cost his team over $30M per season, a huge ask for a team to clear up on short notice. Though it can be done, it will be an enormous task for the Steelers. The good news for Steeler fans is that the team has the money to pay Watson as of right now. The bad news? If Pittsburgh acquires Watson, the team will not have much left to go after free agents to fill the holes in their roster.

Do you think the Steelers should go after Watson this offseason? Let us know in the comments below!

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