During his annual charity softball game in Houston, retired NFL star J.J. Watt hinted at the possibility of a return to the gridiron if the Houston Texans were in dire need of his services.
Watt, who still trains as if he’s still currently playing, emphasized that this is the final year he will consider returning to the NFL.
He also made it clear that his beloved Texans are the only team he would be open to returning to. (Although we’ll see about that…)
“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,” Watt said.
“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.”
Watt, who retired after the 2022 season, will always be most remembered as a Texan. His short stint with the Arizona Cardinals was disappointing and uneventful from a team perspective.
Interestingly, he was quite clear with his stance. He will be staying in football shape as best he can and will gladly return to Houston if Ryans comes calling.
Injuries took their toll down the stretch of his career, but at only 35-years-old it’s clear that Watt still feels the competitive itch.
It would be foolish to think he wouldn’t be able to positively contribute to the Texans.
We know his leadership is as good as it gets, but he also has miles left in his tires, especially after taking a year off to recharge his battery.
“He (Ryans) knows if he ever truly does need it, I’ll be there for him,” Watt assured. “But I don’t anticipate that happening because they have a very good crew.
“I hope that everybody stays extremely healthy, and they dominate, and they don’t need any bodies, and I just get to watch and enjoy it from the couch.”
Despite Watt’s willingness to assist if required, the Texans have bolstered their pass-rushing unit this offseason, signing notable talents such as Danielle Hunter and Denico Autry.
Additionally, the team boasts promising rookie Will Anderson Jr., the third overall pick in last year’s draft.
Watt’s legendary tenure with the Texans saw him earn accolades such as Defensive Rookie of the Year and three Defensive Player of the Year awards, as he accumulated an impressive 114.5 sacks over ten seasons.
While Watt currently serves as an NFL analyst for CBS Sports and has become a minority owner of English soccer club Burnley FC, it’s clear as day that he’s serious about a return to the NFL.
What are your thoughts about Watt potentially returning to the NFL?
Do you think Ryans will come calling at some point? … Do you think other teams will try to beat Houston to the punch?
How about the Steelers? … Do you think they will try to convince Watt to join his brother in Pittsburgh?
At the end of the day, will we see Watt on an NFL field this coming season???