Andre Johnson tells Watson to stand ground, says Texans waste careers

Retired former Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson isn't hiding his thoughts about the franchise amid Deshaun Watson's reported dissatisfaction with management.

Johnson, who spent 12 years of his career with the Texans, advised Watson not to back down if he's angry with the organization. He said the franchise has a history of holding back its players.

"If I'm (Deshaun Watson), I will stand my ground. The Texans organization is known for wasting players' careers. Since Jack Easterby has (walked) into the building nothing good has happened in/for the organization and for some reason someone can't seem to see what's going on. Pathetic!!!" Johnson tweeted Tuesday.

Johnson has served in off-field roles with the Texans since his retirement. He spent time as a special assistant to the general manager but stepped away before the 2020 season. He was then brought in as part of an advisory committee to help find the next head coach and general manager. It's that process that Watson is reportedly frustrated with.

The signal-caller was reportedly unhappy after the club ignored his input on the hiring process despite telling him he'd be involved. Watson learned about the hiring of Nick Caserio as general manager through social media, and his push for Eric Bieniemy as a head coaching candidate was ignored until recently.

The turmoil inside the organization has led to reports that Watson could force a trade this offseason. Houston owner Cal McNair said he hasn't been able to communicate with the quarterback.

Watson has been vocal about the need for a culture change in the organization. The Texans have made a number of questionable personnel decisions in recent years, including the trade of wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who also chimed in on the ongoing saga.

Watson recently signed a four-year, $156-million contract extension that comes equipped with a no-trade clause.

The Texans have the same number of last-place finishes in the AFC South (six) as playoff appearances since the franchise debuted in 2002.