Deshaun Watson’s girlfriend posts birthday tribute to him amid trade rumors

Deshaun Watson’s relationship with girlfriend Jilly Anais is going strong as the Texans quarterback remains on the sideline amid allegations of sexual assault.

The singer shared a sweet birthday tribute to Watson in an Instagram post Tuesday. Anais shared a series of photos that showed the couple cozied up on a recent tropical vacation.

“Happy Birthday LoveBug! Walking hand in hand with you 4L,” the cookbook author and influencer wrote in her caption.

Watson commented, “4L,” with a heart emoji under the post, which included PDA snaps on the beach, at a dinner and on a private plane.

Watson is facing 22 civil lawsuits and 10 criminal complaints, mostly from massage therapists, alleging sexual assault. When the allegations first emerged in March, Watson shared a statement to Twitter refuting the claims of inappropriate behavior.

So far, Watson has not been suspended or disciplined by the NFL. He practiced with the Texans throughout training camp, but never played a preseason snap.

Last Monday, Houston’s head coach David Culley confirmed veteran Tyrod Taylor would be the Week 1 starter against the Jaguars. Watson, who was inactive in Houston’s season-opening 37-21 win, remains on the roster.

Taylor completed 21-of-33 passes for 291 yards and a pair of touchdowns, with no interceptions, along with 40 yards rushing.  

Meanwhile, Houston plans to not play the three-time Pro Bowler at all this season. He’s been the subject of trade rumors, though Houston GM Nick Caserio hasn’t budged from his high asking price.

Watson requested a trade from Houston in January, due to reported frustrations over the organization not including him in major team decisions. It came just a few months after the franchise QB signed a four-year contract extension with the Texans in September 2020.