J.J. Watt Leaves Door Slightly Open for NFL Return if Texans Require Assistance

Former NFL star J.J. Watt hinted at the possibility of a return to football if the Houston Texans find themselves in dire need, though he emphasized this year marks the final time he’ll express such willingness.

Watt, who retired following the 2022 season, made the remarks during his annual charity softball game in Houston. “I’m a very fortunate, lucky man, I have a beautiful wife, I have a beautiful son. I’ve had 12 great years in this league and I’m very thankful to have walked away healthy and playing great,” he told reporters.

“I told DeMeco [Ryans] last year: ‘Don’t call unless you absolutely need it, but, if you ever do call, I’ll be there.’ And he knows not to call unless he absolutely needs it. This is the last year I’ll tell him that, because I’m not going to keep training [the way] I’ve been training.”

The 35-year-old Watt and Ryans were teammates during the 2011 season, Watt’s rookie year and Ryans’ final season with the Texans. Ryans currently serves as the Texans’ head coach, guiding them to a 10-7 record last season, clinching the AFC South division title and securing a wild-card victory over the Cleveland Browns.

Watt expressed confidence in the Texans’ current roster, particularly their pass-rushing unit, which was bolstered during the offseason with the signings of Danielle Hunter and Denico Autry. The team also boasts promising talent in Will Anderson Jr., the third overall pick in the 2023 draft, who recorded seven sacks in his rookie campaign.

During his illustrious 10-season tenure with the Texans, Watt earned accolades such as Defensive Rookie of the Year and three Defensive Player of the Year awards, accumulating a career total of 114.5 sacks.

Aside from his NFL achievements, Watt serves as an analyst for CBS Sports and, along with his wife Kealia, became minority owners of English soccer club Burnley FC in the previous year.