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The Texans reportedly expect to trade Deshaun Watson and, given the global health crisis, the quarterback does not want fans to protest.

Wantaway Watson pleads with Texans fans to cancel protest march

Deshaun Watson has asked Houston Texans fans not to risk exposing themselves to coronavirus by marching in protest in response to reports he is pushing for a trade.

Quarterback Watson is said to have lost patience with the Texans over a number of issues, including the recruitment process for the hiring of general manager Nick Caserio earlier in January.

ESPN reported at the weekend those involved at Houston now expected Watson would move on after four seasons with the team.

Texans supporters remain desperate to keep their star player, however, and a demonstration was proposed for Monday.

Given the COVID-19 pandemic, it was not a move supported by a "humbled" Watson.

He wrote on Twitter: "I'm hearing there is a march planned on my behalf in Houston today.

"Although I am humbled I ask that whoever is organising the march cancel for the sake of public safety.

"COVID is spreading at a high rate & I don't want any fans to unnecessarily expose themselves to infection."

I’m hearing there is a march planned on my behalf in Houston today. Although I am humbled I ask that whoever is organizing the march cancel for the sake of public safety. Covid is spreading at a high rate & I don’t want any fans to unnecessarily expose themselves to infection.
— Deshaun Watson (@deshaunwatson) January 18, 2021

A first-round pick in 2017, Watson has thrown for 14,539 yards and 104 touchdowns in 54 regular season games (53 starts) for the Texans, boasting a career passer rating of 104.5.

However, Houston have repeatedly underwhelmed and ended the 2020 season with a 4-12 record, with Watson having been restricted to three playoff appearances during his time with the team.

The 25-year-old's impressive displays in an underperforming side would appear to make him an obvious target for teams seeking a new QB this offseason, with early reports mentioning the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins as potential suitors.

Watson and the Texans agreed to a four-year, $160million contract extension in September.

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