J.J. Watt is leaving the door slightly open for a potential NFL return if the Houston Texans need him, but he insists this will be the final year he entertains the idea.
Watt, who retired after the 2022 season, made these remarks while hosting his annual charity softball game in Houston.
“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,” he told reporters. “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 and Ryans have a history together, having played for the Texans in 2011, which was Watt’s first NFL season and Ryans’ last with the team. Ryans was hired as the Texans’ head coach last year and led Houston to a 10-7 record, an AFC South division title, and a wild-card victory over the Cleveland Browns.
Despite his comments, Watt isn’t planning a return to the field anytime soon. He recently took to social media to share a vacation he’s enjoying with his wife, humorously referring to it as his “training camp.”
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Watt’s NFL career is decorated with accolades, including a Defensive Rookie of the Year award and three Defensive Player of the Year awards over his 10 seasons with the Texans. He concluded his career with an impressive 114.5 sacks.
Currently, Watt serves as an NFL analyst for CBS Sports. He and his wife, Kealia, also became minority owners of English soccer club Burnley FC last year.
Watt appears content with his current phase of life, embracing his role as a husband, father, and analyst, while also enjoying his well-deserved break from the rigorous demands of professional football. The picture he paints of his current “training camp” is one of relaxation and fulfillment, far removed from the grind of the NFL.
