Deshaun Watson switches course, accepts trade to join Browns

Deshaun Watson changed his mind. The Browns have their franchise quarterback, one with some extra heavy baggage.

Watson decided to waive his no-trade clause and the controversial QB accepted a trade to Cleveland after previously rejecting the team, a person familiar with the decision told The Associated Press on Friday.

Watson, who didn't play last season for Houston, had informed the Browns on Thursday that he wasn't coming. However, he had a change of heart and called the team Friday, said the person who spoke on condition of anonymity because the team has not announced the imminent trade.

The Browns are paying a hefty price for Watson, sending the Texans three first-round draft picks along with a third- and fourth-rounder for the 26-year-old. Cleveland will also get back a fifth-rounder from Houston with Watson.

A statement from Chair and CEO Cal McNair:

Watson posted a photo on Instagram of him wearing a No. 4 Browns jersey and flexing. He wrote: "Cleveland, LETSSSS GOOOO!! .DawgPound Ready To Work!"

He should be happy. Watson's also receiving a five-year, $230 million US guaranteed contract, a record for any NFL player.

Watson is still dealing with civil lawsuits from the women, massage therapists who accused him of assault and harassment. He's also possibly facing a suspension by the NFL for violating the league's personal conduct policy.

The trade will not affect the league's inquiry into Watson.

"Any transaction would have no effect on the NFL's ongoing and comprehensive investigation of the serious allegations against Deshaun Watson," league spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email to AP. "Nor would it affect his status under the Collective Bargaining Agreement and the Personal Conduct Policy.

"If the league's