The Houston Texans needed a clean break from Deshaun Watson.
Whether it was the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback’s trade request from January 2021 shortly after the hiring of general manager Nick Caserio, or his being named as a defendant in a lawsuit wherein 22 women allege he committed sexual assault, Watson had worn out his welcome in Houston.
Texans coach Lovie Smith sees the separation from Watson, finalized with a trade with the Cleveland Browns, as a fresh start for both sides.