Despite transitioning to business endeavors, Tom Brady and J.J. Watt remain drawn to football, as they miss the camaraderie and fulfillment it provides.
In the twilight of their illustrious careers, Tom Brady and J.J. Watt have embarked on new paths in the world of business. Brady is pursuing minority ownership stakes in various sports teams, while Watt and his wife, Kealia, have become investors in several companies. Yet, despite their post-NFL ventures, the allure of football persists.
In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Brady confessed that he misses the "love of my life" – football. Watt echoed this sentiment, expressing his willingness to return to the Houston Texans if needed. These revelations underscore the profound connection these legendary players still feel to the sport that shaped them.
Former NFL star Shawne Merriman attributes this attachment to two primary factors: the family-like bonds forged within a football team and the unparalleled dedication it demands. Players spend countless hours in the locker room, relying on each other to achieve a common goal. This creates an unbreakable camaraderie and a sense of purpose that is difficult to replicate outside of football.
Merriman, who retired in 2012, initially transitioned to sports broadcasting. However, he has since launched his own MMA promotion and TV channel, Lights Out Sports, fueled by his desire to create a space similar to an NFL locker room.
"I've had this idea for so long to create a locker room in one place, and we got it," Merriman explained. "It's completely free, 100% free. It'll be on every major TV platform. And soon, you'll be able to get it all over the world."
The challenges of transitioning from an NFL player to a successful entrepreneur are immense. Brady and Watt, however, have embraced this new chapter with the same determination they exhibited on the field.
"Being in the NFL is the closest you're going to get to two things — family and life," Merriman said. "And you spend so much of your time attached to it, the detaching part is what guys struggle to just let it go."
While Brady and Watt have found fulfillment in their new pursuits, football remains an integral part of their identities. The bonds they formed and the experiences they shared on the field will forever hold a special place in their hearts.
As such, the possibility of a return to the NFL, even in a limited capacity, remains tantalizing for both players. If the call ever comes, Brady and Watt have demonstrated that they are ready to answer, showcasing the enduring power of football's allure.
