Texans HC: Watson 'our starting QB as of right now'

The Houston Texans' stance that Deshaun Watson will be under center for them this upcoming season hasn't wavered since the quarterback's trade request came to light.

But when asked Thursday if Watson will be the starter in 2021, Texans head coach David Culley appeared to open the door on the possibility of the signal-caller having his wish granted.

"He is our starting quarterback as of right now," Culley said on the "Huddle and Flow" podcast. "He is our starting quarterback. Things happen between now and then. We'll see what happens."

Houston Texans coach David Culley addresses the Deshaun Watson question on Huddle&Flow with @wyche89 @tewarren and me. pic.twitter.com/MB5YYJATgS

- Jim Trotter (@JimTrotter_NFL) March 11, 2021

Later Thursday, Culley was pressed multiple times about Watson's future during a press conference dominated by questions regarding the quarterback. In response, the 65-year-old reiterated Watson won't be traded in far stronger language.

"We are very committed to Deshaun as our quarterback. He is our quarterback," said Culley, according to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle.

Watson reportedly told Culley in a February meeting that he won't alter his stance about wanting to leave Houston.

"It's not a matter of me trying to change anyone's mind," said Culley. "We're committed to him. He's a Houston Texan and we're going to move forward with that."

Culley added that "there is no contingency plan" if Watson doesn't report to the team for the 2021 season.

The former Clemson standout inked a four-year, $156-million extension in September that contains a no-trade clause.

Watson reportedly requested an exit after his relationship with team ownership deteriorated amid the process that led to general manager Nick Caserio's hiring in January.

However, Houston reportedly has ignored all inquiries regarding Watson.

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