Report: Panthers, Browns out of running for Watson

The Cleveland Browns were informed they are out of the running for Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, a source told NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.

The Carolina Panthers were also told later Thursday that they won't be landing Watson, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero report.

With the Browns and Panthers out of the picture, the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons are the final two teams left in the sweepstakes, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The Saints reportedly had a second meeting with Watson on Wednesday night.

Watson is expected to take the weekend to decide which team he'll waive his no-trade clause for, sources told Aaron Wilson of Pro Football Network.

Baker Mayfield requested a trade from Cleveland on Thursday following its pursuit of Watson, citing a relationship that was "too far gone to mend." However, the Browns reportedly told the quarterback they wouldn't accommodate his request.

He fueled speculation about his future by posting a message thanking Browns fans Tuesday, the same day Cleveland brass apparently met with Watson.

Meanwhile, the Panthers head into the 2022 campaign with Sam Darnold and P.J. Walker making up their quarterback room.