The Chicago Bears Deshaun Watson connection runs deep by this point. Weeks ago it was established that the Clemson star was the likely preferred target of the franchise as their potential future franchise QB. Not surprising. His incredible production, 28-2 record between 2015 and 2016, and national championship victory over Alabama checked every box for what GM Ryan Pace claims to look for in a quarterback.
Rumors continue to persist that the team remains interested, but may not be willing to venture the risk. Not at #3 overall anyway. This would explain why the Bears are so intent on trying to move down via trade. That would provide a better player-for-pick value. Not as much of a perceived “reach.” It makes plenty of sense on paper.
That said it also may come with a stern warning. Not from the draft experts either. From Watson himself.
Bears Deshaun Watson relationship rests on a promise
The young quarterback comes across as cool, humble and genuine in his interview. That, however, belies how relentless a competitor he is. One does not win so many close games as he has without a stubborn refusal to be anything less than the best. That would explain his comments when asked about his comparison to fellow top quarterback, Mitch Trubisky of North Carolina.
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In an interview with Good Morning Football on the NFL Network, he basically warned the Bears and other NFL teams that they would regret passing on him.
“You’re gonna have to live with the consequences that come with it. That’s how I see it,” Watson responded. “I try to stay in my lane. I try not to take the path. I respect Mitch and what he’s done and all the hype he’s getting, but at the same time, my result speaks for itself. I feel like I’ve accomplished everything that I could. I guess if that’s who they’re gonna roll with, so be it.”
Shades of Manning
This comes across as a clear look into the man’s mind. An unbreakable self-confidence and quiet assurance that he’s going to succeed no matter where he ends up. It reflects a similar mentality to none other than the great Peyton Manning. His statement to the Indianapolis Colts prior to the 1998 draft still resonate with people and remains a treasured story to this day.
‘I’ll leave you with this thought: If you take me, I promise you we will win a championship. If you don’t, I promise I’ll come back and kick your ass.’
Of course being in front of cameras, Watson wasn’t going to say it like that. Nonetheless that’s almost the exact same meaning behind his words. Find any excuse you need to not do it, but don’t cry and moan in five years when I’m leading my team to a Super Bowl. This is the sort of bravado teams want in their quarterbacks, which is why Watson is loved by scouts everywhere. Even in spite of his physical shortcomings.
Every NFL team wants a leader under center. Somebody who refuses to accept anything less than the best from teammates and himself. Watson proved he was that guy in college. Are the Bears willing to let him prove it again in the NFL?
