J.J. Watt has been contemplating a return to football after retiring in 2022, thanks to the resurgence of the Houston Texans under head coach DeMeco Ryans. Watt, who played 10 seasons in Houston, expressed his willingness to come out of retirement if Ryans gives him a call. He made the statement at a charity event in Houston, where he reflected on his successful career and healthy departure from the NFL.
Having played alongside Ryans during his rookie season, Watt has a close relationship with the Texans head coach. He previously informed Ryans to only call him if they absolutely need him, a sentiment he reiterated at the charity event. The Texans, led by rising stars like C.J. Stroud and Will Anderson Jr., are poised to be contenders in the AFC South for years to come, making Watt’s potential return even more intriguing.
Watt, who is now 35 years old, acknowledges that his window for a return to football is closing, indicating that this year might be his last opportunity to entertain the idea. Despite his age, Watt proved he still had plenty left in the tank during his final NFL season with the Arizona Cardinals in 2022. With the Texans in need of a veteran presence and pass-rushing help, the possibility of Watt coming back to the team remains a topic of speculation.
The Texans would be open to welcoming back Watt, a franchise legend who is already enshrined in their Ring of Honor. While Watt insists that he is not actively training for a return, he remains open to the idea if the Texans truly believe his services are required. As the season unfolds, the question remains whether Ryans will make the call for Watt to return to the field and contribute to the team he once served as a defensive anchor.