The Pittsburgh Steelers have been fortunate to have TJ Watt on their roster since they drafted him in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. His brother, JJ Watt, built an illustrious NFL career before him and retired after 12 seasons in 2022. Though JJ has hinted at a possible return to the NFL under the right circumstances, nothing has materialized so far.
Recently, JJ has been working out and still looks like he could be a top defensive player at 35. On Monday, he posted on social media suggesting he was training at the Steelers' facility. While this has sparked speculation among fans about a potential return to the NFL with TJ, it's more likely that JJ is simply pursuing his personal fitness goals.
Nonetheless, Steeler Nation can enjoy the buzz from JJ's social media activity. On Monday, former Steelers Head Coach Bill Cowher, who now works with CBS alongside JJ, appeared on The Pat McAfee Show. When McAfee highlighted JJ's post, it led to discussions about the possibility of JJ joining the Steelers or another team in 2024. Cowher believes that while JJ might not be serious about a return, he would consider it if the right opportunity arose.
"All I know is I was just with him last week at our seminar and I know he’s exactly the same playing weight as he was when he was playing," Cowher said. "I don’t know what will happen this season if anything would develop. I know JJ is ready, but I don’t think he will take that phone call, but I think he would listen."
Cowher may have misspoken slightly when he mentioned that JJ wouldn’t take the phone call but would listen. Regardless, the fact that JJ is open to considering a return is still intriguing and exciting.
McAfee, who is close with JJ, added some insight by suggesting that this could be the Steelers' last chance to pair JJ with TJ.
"Yeah well, he has said that openly, this is the last year. 'This is the last year that I’ll keep my phone on if anyone needs me in the perfect situation.' He said that publicly."
TJ has been a dominant force since entering the NFL, widely regarded as one of the best players in the league. His impressive resume includes six Pro Bowls, four All-Pro selections, and one Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) Award.
TJ very well could have at least one more DPOY award. Despite leading the NFL with 19 sacks in 2023, he didn't win the award. Many Steelers fans felt he was unjustly overlooked for the DPOY award in that season. TJ would agree.
Over his seven seasons, TJ has amassed 96.5 sacks, setting historic standards that will be tough for future players to match. His career stats are expected to soar even higher as he continues to play. In contrast, his brother JJ, another of the game's great defensive players, retired after 12 seasons with 114.5 sacks and three DPOY Awards. JJ's career was marred by injuries, which led to an earlier retirement than many anticipated.
Steelers Fans Continue To Get Teased By JJ Watt
Though JJ's career was shortened by injuries, he has stayed in football shape and at 35, still has potential if he remains healthy. He seems to miss the game and has hinted at a possible return, but it’s unclear if he will ever fully commit to it. The last couple of seasons JJ has really teased fans about a return.
Steelers fans remain hopeful that JJ will consider a comeback as Pittsburgh would be a top contender to land him because of TJ. This will be the last chance for JJ to play alongside his brother in the Steel City.
