Former Houston Texans legend J.J. Watt has expressed his willingness to come out of retirement and rejoin his old team under one crucial condition. Watt, who spent the final season of his illustrious career with the Arizona Cardinals in 2022, retired at the end of the season and is now an NFL analyst for CBS.
J.J. Watt spent a decade as the heart and soul of the Houston Texans, leaving an enduring legacy on the franchise before departing in 2021. After a brief stint with the Arizona Cardinals, Watt bid farewell to football in 2022, adding another chapter to his remarkable career.
Although Watt is now basking in retirement, he recently hinted at a possible return to Houston – but only under one condition. Speaking to Houston's SportsRadio 610, Watt revealed his willingness to don his Texans uniform once more if his former teammate, current head coach DeMeco Ryans, desperately needed his help.
"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 last year, I said, '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."
Watt's offer, however, has a built-in expiration date. While he is extending an olive branch for one more season, he emphasized that his training regimen would not continue indefinitely. "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 said.
Watt's potential return would undoubtedly bolster a Texans defense that is already formidable, boasting last season's Defensive Rookie of the Year Will Anderson Jr. and former first-round pick Derek Barnett. The addition of pass rusher Danielle Hunter in free agency further solidifies the unit.
Injuries, however, could pave the way for Watt's comeback. However, Watt remains optimistic about the Texans' prospects in the upcoming season, expressing his belief in the team's current roster.
"I don't anticipate that happening," Watt said about the possibility of getting a call from Ryans. "They've got a very good group."
Ultimately, Watt's return to Houston hinges on the Texans' need. If Ryans believes he cannot navigate the upcoming season without his former teammate, Watt has indicated his willingness to step up and provide the necessary support. However, the window of opportunity is closing, and Watt's offer will soon expire.
