While working out with teammates in Arizona, Deshaun Watson took time out of his busy schedule to sit down with host Carmelo Anthony.
During the YouTube livestream interview, Watson discusses his new book Pass It On, a memoir chronicling the pressures of being a black quarterback in a role that is predominately filled by white men, and the NFL’s Social Justice Movement, among other topics.
While talking about his book, Watson explains that there are seven core values that he settled on while pursuing this writing endeavor. However, not wanting to spoil the book, he only hints that it covers leadership and dealing with adversity in life.
Due to his ties to the Five Percent Nation, Anthony wondered why Watson stuck with only seven core values.
Watson goes on to explain, “I am more of a spiritual than religious person and I felt that the number seven meant completion.”
Anthony then delves into his experience with the number seven and how the seventh letter in the alphabet is “G” for GOD.
At one point, Anthony asks Watson does he feel any pressure as a black quarterback in today’s NFL. Watson conveys that there is pressure on him to carry himself a certain way to meet high standards, unlike his white counterparts playing the quarterback position.
He elaborates on the topic explaining that he is susceptible to be judged on his background and the color of his skin.
“You have to move a little differently and talk more proper unlike when I am hanging out with my boys,” he said.
When asked by Anthony about his feelings on the NFL Social Justice Movement, Watson stands firm on his belief about his white contemporaries stance.
Watson states, “Due to the majority of NFL locker rooms being black, white teammates are going to be tested.”
It is evident that there is a difference between owners in the NFL and NBA, as Anthony points out in the interview. Watson has only had the chance to engage in conversation with the head coach and executive vice president of football operations.
While both have been supportive about the movement, Watson feels it’s necessary that the owner shows some kind of support and exchanges communication with the team at the very least on the first day of training camp.
“He needs to come communicate with us, ask us questions and let us know that he is there to support us, and if not — there are going to be some issues.”
Catch the whole interview below:
