Deshaun Watson’s reported accident with the Houston Texans adds another layer of intrigue to the 49ers’ quarterback situation entering the off-season. While no reports have surfaced of the Texans offering the 25-year-old quarterback in a trade, nor has Watson made any demands from the public trade, the conversation about his possible move has taken over the conversation about San Francisco’s off-season.
Legendary 49ers WR Jerry Rice joined “ The Morning Roast ” on Monday at 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, talking about a possible pursuit of Watson for the 49ers.
“Everything starts with the quarterback,” Rice said. “If the quarterback can’t stay healthy, we’re in trouble. If Deshaun Watson, if he’s out there and he’s unhappy in Houston, then I think we should take that into account. “
When asked how much he would be willing to give up in a trading scenario, Rice – who played with a pair of San Francisco Hall of Fame quarterbacks – stressed the importance of the position.
“Quarterback is the most important piece of the puzzle,” said Rice. ‘If you don’t have a quarterback, you’re not going to win. You’re going to build your dynasty around that quarterback. So how much? I don’t know, but if we get the chance to bring in a player of his quality, we have to look at that, because the game is going in a totally different direction now too, guys. Quarterbacks are more mobile, can come out of the pocket, extend play and still throw the ball to the field. You now need a mobile quarterback. So I don’t know what’s too much, but if we have a chance to get a player of his size or something, we have to go for it. “
It is difficult to argue with any of Rice’s points. The NFL is one such quarterback-driven league now that finding the franchise signal caller is the No. 1 priority for every team. The right player in that position can cover a lot of warts that could show up if less talent takes it.
If Watson becomes available in a trade, Rice is right. San Francisco should do everything it can to get him to Santa Clara.