The resurgence of the Houston Texans is getting the attention of JJ Watt.
The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year has not played since 2022. But he will consider coming out of retirement if Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans contacts him. He spoke at a charity event in Houston on Saturday and talked about his possible return to soccer.
“I'm a very lucky, lucky person,” Watt said, according to the Houston Chronicle. “I have a beautiful wife and a beautiful son. I had a great 12 years in this league and I'm so grateful to be able to retire healthy and playing great games.
“I told DeMeco last year, 'Don't call me unless you absolutely have to. But if you do, I'll be right there.'” I know I shouldn't call. ”
Watt played 10 of his 12 NFL seasons in Houston. He made two Pro Bowl appearances with the Texans as a linebacker and played his rookie season with Ryans, who returned as head coach last season. He led the Texans to the AFC South championship and a playoff victory over the Cleveland Browns.
Armed with current Rookie of the Year quarterback C.J. Stroud, current Defensive Rookie of the Year Will Anderson Jr., and a stable of weapons, the Texans will be in the AFC South's top spot for the foreseeable future. We are developing a project that will compete for the title and the title beyond that. Will Watt, who has won just three playoff games in his Hall of Fame career, really be tempted to return to play for his former teammate?
Although he is 35 years old, he says he remains in good shape playing soccer. But his offer has an expiration date.
“This is the last year I'm going to say this to him because I'm not going to continue training the way I've been training,” Watt continued. “But he knows that if he really needs it, I'll be there for him. They have a very good group, so I never thought something like that would happen.” I didn’t expect that.”
So what does it take for the Texans to “absolutely” need Watt? Does that mean an injury to a key pass rusher? Did you struggle with defense early in the season?
And can Watt continue to contribute? He certainly delivered in his final NFL season, recording 12.5 sacks in 16 games against the Arizona Cardinals in 2022. If the Texans decide they “absolutely” need him, they will almost certainly welcome him back with open arms. Will Lyons make the call?
