The no trade clause is something that many players can take advantage of in the NFL. However, what is the NFL’s no trade clause?
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Deshaun Watson has requested a trade from the Texans, according to league sources. Has a no trade clause in his $156 million contract. Texans don’t want to trade Watson and want to repair the relationship. This is a big step in the disconnect between Pro Bowl passer and Texans
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) January 28, 2021
With Deshaun Watson demanding a trade recently, the topic of a no trade clause has become a major talking point. Read on to learn more about what exactly this entails and how players can make use of it.
Also read: Houston Texans Quarterback Deshaun Watson Demands Trade: Where Could DW4 Play Next?
Why Would A Player Want a No Trade Clause?
This clause is actually pretty straightforward. If a player signs a contract that includes this clause, the team cannot trade the player away without first obtaining his permission.
If permission is granted, the player can then waive his no trade clause and allow the trade to proceed. This sort of clause is very empowering for players as it gives them some control in their contract.
This way, the organization can’t ship the player off to any team they feel like as they would actually need that player’s permission first. Thus, players can dictate where they want to be trade.
This helps a player leverage their trading market in the event they want to leave the organization. And well, this is exactly what is happening with Deshaun Watson’s situation in Houston right now.
The Texans could choose to send Watson off wherever they want to, but because Watson has a no trade clause, he essentially controls where the Texans can and can’t send him.
By signing the contract in Sept, Watson got an extra $27m out of the Texans, got a no-trade clause, and now gets to pick his landing spot for 2021. And doesn’t have to worry about the Texans giving him the franchise tag. Pretty brilliant
— Ben Volin (@BenVolin) January 28, 2021
Clearly, the clause is very advantageous for players. As such, most players don’t get to bargain their way into getting such a clause.
As of right now, Russell Wilson and Jimmy Graham also have no trade clauses in their contracts. It’ll be an interesting development to see if Watson uses this provision to veto any potential trades the Texans choose to make.
Also read: Odell Beckham Jr. 2020 Season: Does OBJ Have a Future With the Cleveland Browns?
