J.J. Watt, the Houston Texans icon who spent a decade dominating the gridiron, has hinted at a potential NFL comeback. Texans fans are eagerly envisioning their franchise legend donning the iconic Battle Red, Deep Steel Blue, and Liberty White once more. Watt, who was recently inducted into the Houston Texans Ring of Honor, remains a beacon of hope for the team’s loyal fan base.
J.J. Watt’s Storied Career and Lingering Ambitions
After retiring in 2022 with the Arizona Cardinals, Watt took a well-earned break at 35. However, during a charity softball event, he couldn’t resist leaving the door ajar for a potential return, telling ESPN, “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.”
Despite his happiness in retirement, the legendary defensive end hasn’t entirely dismissed the idea of strapping on his pads for one last run on the field.
Almost 10 years later, J.J. Watt is still stunned how Tony Romo got away from him to throw a miraculous touchdown. https://t.co/siVpOYhC2E pic.twitter.com/4chItc32ql
— Blogging The Boys (@BloggingTheBoys) May 10, 2024
The Houston Texans Connection Remains Strong
“If there’s one team I’d return to, it would be the Houston Texans,” Watt confided. His connection with Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, his former teammate in Houston, adds to the speculation. During Watt’s rookie season in 2011, he played alongside Ryans, forging a bond that could facilitate his comeback.
The defensive stalwart earned numerous accolades with Houston, including three Defensive Player of the Year awards and five Pro Bowl nominations. His legacy is cemented in Texans history with a franchise-record 101 sacks and the Walter Payton Man of the Year award in 2017.
A Defensive Powerhouse Awaits
Watt is keeping his connections open, declaring, “I told DeMeco [Ryans] last year: ‘Don’t call unless you absolutely need it, but if you ever do call, I’ll be there.'” Watt knows the Texans possess a formidable defensive lineup that could make his return even more exciting.
The defensive group includes Will Anderson Jr., a 2023 top-three draft pick, and veteran additions like Danielle Hunter and Denico Autry. Watt acknowledged their prowess, saying, “I don’t anticipate that happening because they have a very good crew.”
Achievements and Challenges
While in Arizona, Watt managed to deliver 13.5 sacks, seven pass deflections, a forced fumble, and 39 tackles over two seasons, placing eighth in Comeback Player of the Year voting in 2022. These stats prove that even at 35, Watt can still be a significant force on the field.
If he returns to the NFL in 2024, fans can expect him to compete fiercely in Houston’s star-studded defense. Whether he seizes the opportunity remains uncertain, but it’s evident that Watt’s passion for the sport and love for the Texans endure.
