JJ Watt wants to play for Texans in 2024

May 5, 2024, 10:07 PM CST Written by Rory Parks

Former star edge defender, current CBS sports personality JJ Watt took off the cleats At the end of the 2022 campaign. I haven’t heard any reports to suggest Watt was mulling over his decision, but it appears he will return to playing for his former team if the right circumstances arise.

Watt, 35, was a first-round pick of the Texans in 2011 and, despite several injury-plagued seasons, built a Hall of Fame career during his 10 years playing in Houston, then (ostensibly) ) His playing career ended. A two-year stint with the Cardinals. His first season with the Texans also Demeco RyansHe last played as a linebacker in Houston (of course, Lyons is now in his second season as the team’s head coach).

Before the start of the 2023 campaign, Watt told Ryans that he would suit up for the Texans if Ryans had to (video) Link (via Sports Radio 610’s Brandon Scott). Apparently, that offer is still on the table for 2024, but this will be the last year Watt will be able to join his old club.

“I told Demeco last year, ‘Don’t call me unless you absolutely have to. But if you do, I’ll be there,'” Watt said this yesterday at this charity softball game (h/t Pro football’s Michael David Smith talks). “And he knows he shouldn’t call unless it’s really necessary. This is the last year I’m going to tell him this, because I’m not going to continue training like I’ve been. But he knows that if he really needs it, I’ll be there for him. I don’t expect that to happen, but they are very. We have a great group.”

Indeed, with Lyons CJ Stroud The league’s toast in 2023 was when a rookie coach and quarterback led the Texans to a surprising run to the divisional round of the AFC playoff bracket. This offseason, Houston added a number of high-profile additions to its defense.That includes a four-time Pro Bowler. daniel hunter.Hunter and 2023 first-rounder Will Anderson At defensive end, he should form a dynamic duo with players like: derek barnett and a fourth-round selection in 2023. dylan horton Currently supported.

As Watt said, it doesn’t seem necessary for Lyons to call up his former teammate, but Watt is still an ace to watch. Watt’s comments suggest he remains in football shape, starting 16 games and recording 12.5 sacks in 2022, his final year in Arizona. . He could certainly do much worse if Ryans needs an in-season addition to his cadre of pass rushers.