Owner Cal McNair wants Deshaun Watson 'in the loop' on Texans' coaching hire

Houston Texans star quarterback Deshaun Watson has finally returned from vacation and is back communicating with the team. However, it doesn't mean he's on good terms with the franchise. 

Texans owner Cal McNair confirmed that he and Watson have exchanged text messages since he returned. He also confirmed that Watson is not happy about how the team has conducted business in the offseason's early weeks. 

"Deshaun and I connected over texts since he's returned from vacation and I believe in dealing with the personnel issues directly with the players, but in conjunction with our general manager," McNair said, per Mark Berman of FOX 26 Houston. "Deshaun, it's no secret that he's disappointed in the communication during the hiring process."

While Watson was essentially left out of the team's general manager search after the franchise told him he'd be involved, McNair added that the 25-year-old would be "in the loop" during the head-coaching hiring process. 

The Texans didn't request to interview Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy for their vacant head-coaching position until Watson's frustrations with the franchise were made public. Watson reportedly wants Bieniemy to be the team's next head coach, but it's unclear if the franchise feels the same way.

McNair also addressed the trade rumors surrounding Watson, saying he wants the three-time Pro Bowler to lead the team for many years to come.

Despite Houston's struggles as a whole, Watson had the best statistical season of his career in 2020, completing 70.2% of his passes for 4,823 yards and 33 touchdowns against seven interceptions. He also ran for 444 yards and three touchdowns. 

It would be a mistake for the Texans to trade Watson, but they might not have a choice if the Clemson product is unhappy. If he were made available in discussions, the franchise would likely be looking for a top draft pick in exchange for the QB.