Texans CEO says he's communicated with Watson: 'No secret he's disappointed'
Deshaun Watson and the Houston Texans appear to be back on speaking terms.
Texans CEO and chairman Cal McNair stated he has communicated with the disgruntled quarterback through text messages. At the introductory press conference of new general manager Nick Caserio - which is the root of Watson's unhappiness - McNair previously said he was unable to get in touch with Watson.
"Deshaun and I connected over text since he's returned from vacation. It's no secret he's disappointed in the (lack of) communication during the hiring process," McNair said Friday, according to John McClain of The Houston Chronicle.
Watson was frustrated after being left out of the new general manager search despite being told the team would value his input. The signal-caller had to find out about Caserio's hiring through social media, and McNair assured the same mistake would not happen during the hunt for the squad's future head coach.
"We want him in the loop and part of this process," McNair added.
The 25-year-old passer reportedly advocated for Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, but the team ignored his viewpoint until recently. Houston put in a request to speak to Bieniemy earlier this week, but the club will have to wait until either the Chiefs are eliminated or the postseason concludes for an interview.
The Texans CEO explained the delay in expressing interest in Bieniemy was due to wanting a general manager in place first.
"We were waiting on Nick's list of coaching candidates," McNair answered.
Jack Easterby's influence in Houston's organization has also come under heavy scrutiny after the franchise reportedly ignored its search firm to hire Caserio. McNair confirmed he has no plans to fire Easterby and defended the executive, calling the outside criticism "unjustified."
McNair has taken responsibility for the ongoing turmoil surrounding the team and remains focused on winning a championship with Watson under center.
"I accept that everything hasn't gone perfectly. We're working through it. If players, media, and fans are upset, that's on me. And I'll apologize for my actions or communications that's created mistrust," he noted.
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