Former Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals defensive end J.J. Watt confirmed he held serious discussions about returning to the NFL during the 2023 season, specifically identifying the Texans as the team he considered joining. Despite his retirement following the 2022 campaign, Watt acknowledged that the prospect of rejoining his former franchise remained a tangible possibility as the team pushed toward a playoff berth.
The Texans’ 2023 Playoff Push
The conversation regarding a potential comeback centered on the Texans’ unexpected success under first-year head coach DeMeco Ryans. After finishing the 2022 season with a 3-13-1 record, the team underwent a rapid transformation, led by rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud and a revitalized defense. Watt, who played in Houston for 10 seasons, noted that the team’s trajectory made the idea of a mid-season return particularly appealing.
According to comments made by Watt on the “Pat McAfee Show,” he kept in regular contact with the organization throughout the year. The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year stated that he had informed Ryans that he would be available if the team found itself in a dire situation due to injuries or needed an extra boost for a postseason run. Watt emphasized that his willingness to return was strictly limited to the Texans, citing his deep personal and professional ties to the city and the franchise.
Evaluating the Logistics of a Comeback
Watt officially retired in January 2023 after a decorated 12-year career, finishing with 114.5 career sacks. His physical condition remained a point of interest for fans and analysts throughout the 2023 season, though Watt maintained that he was in shape to play if necessary. However, he clarified that he did not want to disrupt the chemistry of a team that was already finding its rhythm.
The Texans ultimately secured the AFC South title and defeated the Cleveland Browns in the Wild Card round before falling to the Baltimore Ravens in the Divisional round. Watt’s decision to stay on the sidelines allowed the younger roster to develop without the veteran presence he previously provided. Since his retirement, Watt has transitioned into a role as a studio analyst for CBS Sports, while also maintaining a minority ownership stake in the English soccer club Burnley FC.
Why the Return Did Not Materialize
The primary barrier to a return, according to Watt, was his commitment to his post-playing career and the desire to leave the game on his own terms. While he admitted to “serious” internal deliberations, he concluded that the timing was not right to interrupt his transition into media and business ventures. The Texans’ front office, led by general manager Nick Caserio, opted to rely on the depth of their roster rather than pursuing veteran free agents mid-season.
By the end of the 2023 season, the Texans had solidified their defensive front with key contributors such as Will Anderson Jr. and Jonathan Greenard, making the need for a veteran pass-rush specialist less critical than it might have been in previous years. Watt’s involvement remained limited to providing mentorship and support from afar, rather than on the field.
Current Status of J.J. Watt
As of the 2024 offseason, there have been no further reports suggesting Watt intends to sign with any NFL team. He remains a prominent figure in sports media and continues to engage with the Texans’ organization as a fan and former player. The team is currently preparing for their upcoming training camp, with the organization focused on building upon the momentum established during the 2023 season.
For fans looking for official updates regarding Texans roster moves or future organizational announcements, the team provides information through their official website and verified social media channels. The NFL also maintains a comprehensive transaction wire that tracks all league-wide roster changes throughout the calendar year.
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