Rumours surrounding a potential return of J.J. Watt to the gridiron have persisted for two years, refusing to fade away even after the defensive icon's final NFL game. The future Hall of Famer hasn't sought the spotlight, but a recent revelation shows just how real the possibility of a comeback was for the legendary pass rusher.
The Specific Conditions for a Watt Comeback
In a candid conversation with the Houston Chronicle, J.J. Watt admitted he would have considered ending his retirement for the 2024 NFL season, but under extremely rare and specific circumstances. "It would have had to have been the perfect situation, but I definitely would have," Watt stated. He elaborated on the narrow window that could have pulled him back onto the field.
"It would have to have been, people went down — a Phillip Rivers type... Like we need you or we can't participate," Watt explained. He then named the only two franchises that could have triggered such a move: "It had to be them or Pittsburgh with my brother. Those were the only spots I would have done it for." This stance underscores that his motivation was never about personal glory or padding statistics, but about deep-rooted loyalty and purpose.
Unfinished Business and Family Ties
For Watt, the potential return was framed entirely by relationships and responsibility, not ego. A comeback with the Houston Texans would have represented unfinished emotional business with the city and franchise where he built his legacy. The alternative, joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, was solely about the unique opportunity to play alongside his younger brother, T.J. Watt. Any other scenario was simply not on the table.
The bond with current Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, a former teammate, added a significant layer to this possibility. Watt confirmed he even reached out to Ryans, making it clear he would be willing to step in if a desperate need arose due to injuries. However, that crisis scenario never materialised for the Texans, and the door to a return remained closed.
A Legacy That Transcends the Field
Watt's final NFL season with the Arizona Cardinals in 2022 proved he still possessed elite ability, recording 12.5 sacks at age 33. While a 35-year-old version in 2024 might have looked different, his proven preparation and football IQ suggested he could still be useful. Today, Watt has seamlessly transitioned into a successful broadcasting role with CBS, offering sharp analysis instead of quarterback pressure.
Interestingly, the Houston Texans have enjoyed notable success in games he has called, a subtle nod to his enduring connection with the team. While a return to play now seems increasingly unlikely, the mere fact that it was a serious consideration speaks volumes about Watt's competitive fire. It also highlights a defining trait of his career: a focus on meaning over headlines, and legacy over longevity.
