The Pittsburgh Steelers have long reveled in the talents of TJ Watt, but fans recently caught a glimpse of what could have been, as TJ's brother, JJ Watt, disclosed his contemplation of joining the Steelers' roster post-retirement.
Charles LeClaire / USA Today
Steelers defensive star, TJ Watt (#90) at midfield with his brother JJ (#99) during the coin flip as Pittsburgh and Houston get ready to face off at then-Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, PA.
Since his selection in the 2017 NFL Draft, TJ has been a cornerstone of the Steelers' defense. His impact on the field has been nothing short of exceptional, earning him widespread recognition as one of the league's premier defensive players.
Meanwhile, JJ, after a storied 12-year career, announced his retirement following the 2022 season. Citing a culmination of injuries and the need to prioritize his health, Watt bid farewell to the game he had dedicated himself to for over a decade.
Cooper Neill / Getty Images
Steelers star TJ Watt's brother JJ Watt, runs off the field in Arizona.
Throughout the 2023 season, speculation regarding JJ's potential return to the NFL gained momentum, fueled in part by his appearances on The Pat McAfee Show. The notion of JJ reuniting with his brother in Pittsburgh captured the imaginations of Steelers fans nationwide.
"I absolutely am retired and I'm 1,000% done..
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) February 7, 2024
I definitely was monitoring the Texans and Steelers situations this year but nothing ever escalated" ~ @JJWatt #PMSLiVe pic.twitter.com/tmEfPsXIIX
Steelers Will Never See JJ Watt In Pittsburgh
However, any hopes of a Watt brothers reunion were put to rest during JJ's most recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. When questioned about the possibility of his return to the field, Watt unequivocally affirmed his retirement status.
“I absolutely am. Halfway through this last season, I definitely was monitoring the Steelers and Texans situations, but it never escalated to any sort of actual potential. It would have been an absolute dream come true to play with my brother, but they were all set.”
Reflecting on his contemplation of a comeback, JJ acknowledged monitoring both the Steelers and his former team, the Houston Texans, during the 2023 season. Despite the allure of joining TJ in Pittsburgh or returning to his roots in Houston, JJ ultimately decided against pursuing a return to professional football. He closed the door shut even harder with one final double down on his previous sentiment.
“I’m absolutely done. I’m 1,000 percent done.”
At 34 years old, JJ appears content with his decision to retire from football. While he remains in peak physical condition, Watt has embraced his role as a fan of the game and a prominent figure in the media.
JJ Watt Instagram
Steelers' TJ Watt works out with his brother JJ Watt.
Although the possibility of witnessing JJ wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks alongside his brother TJ may have tantalized Steelers fans, it seems that this scenario will remain confined to the realm of a fantasy. As JJ's cleats remain firmly hung up, the Steelers and their fans will continue to cherish the contributions of TJ on the gridiron.
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