Watson's fate among biggest storylines heading into Week 1 of the NFL preseason

With the start of the NFL regular season coming in just a matter of weeks, all 32 teams around the league are getting prepared to make difficult cuts and set those depth charts for the coming year.

Let's take a look at the top five storylines heading into Week 1 of the NFL preseason.

Aaron’s Last Dance?

The saga involving Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is complex. What we know is that he’s reported to camp after threatening to retire and/or become a game show host over the summer, and he’s said his focus is on leading Gang Green to another strong season. Rodgers will turn 38 this December, and second-year signal-caller Jordan Love is waiting in the wings.

What’s Happening With Watson?

There’s nothing about this that’s fun to talk about. Deshaun Watson demanded a trade from Houston after the 2020 campaign, and was the subject of several sexual assault allegations this offseason. We don’t know whether or not he’ll even play this year, let alone who he may play for, although the Eagles are a possibility.

It’s an unenviable situation all the way around, and it’s one that’s been befuddling fans and those within the Texans organization for months.

Will Saquon Be Ready?

New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley tore his ACL early last season and has been rehabbing his way back to health. Questions have been raised about if he’ll suit up for the season’s opening week, but Barkley remains optimistic.

If he’s the player he was before his injury, he’ll be an important part of the Giants offense as they look to challenge Dallas, Washington, and Philadelphia.

Can Josh Allen Live Up to His Contract?

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen just came to terms with the club on a massive, six-year deal. It guarantees him at least $150 million, and could be worth nearly double that by the time all is said and done.

Allen set team single-season records with 4,544 passing yards and 37 touchdowns in 2020, when he helped lead the Bills to the AFC title game.

Watt In, Jones Out?

The Arizona Cardinals acquired future Hall of Famer J.J. Watt after the 2020 season. Watt’s 32 years old and may be on the decline, but he provides plenty of leadership and can still get to the quarterback.

Unfortunately, the Cardinals recently heard from All-Pro Chandler Jones, who has requested a trade after contract talks stalled in the offseason. The request seems to have been denied, but it’s certainly a situation to monitor as the season rolls on.