J.J. Watt, the former defensive powerhouse for the Houston Texans, recently made headlines by hinting at a potential return to the NFL if his former team were to call upon him in need. This revelation was made during his charity softball game in Houston, where Watt expressed his gratitude for his time in the league and his commitment to helping the Texans if necessary. However, Watt also made it clear that this would be the last year he entertains the idea of a return, citing changes in his training regimen and his desire to step back from the game.
One of the driving forces behind Watt’s willingness to consider a return to the NFL is his relationship with Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans. The two players were teammates during Watt’s rookie season in 2011, and Ryans has since taken on the role of head coach for the Texans. Watt’s loyalty to Ryans is evident in his willingness to come out of retirement if the need arises, although he remains hopeful that the current roster of pass rushers will stay healthy and dominate on the field.
Despite Watt’s departure from the Texans, the team has made significant moves to bolster their defense in recent years. The addition of players like Danielle Hunter and Denico Autry, both known for their impressive sack numbers, as well as the emergence of rookie sensation Will Anderson Jr., have given the Texans a strong pass-rushing group. Watt’s legacy with the Texans, including multiple awards and a remarkable career sack total, has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the team.
As Watt transitions into a new role as an NFL analyst for CBS Sports and expands his portfolio as a minority owner of Burnley FC, it’s clear that his impact on the world of sports will continue to be felt. While his playing days may be behind him, the door remains slightly ajar for a potential return to the field if the Texans find themselves in need. Whether or not Watt will don the Texans jersey once again remains to be seen, but his dedication to the team and his lasting legacy in football are undeniable.