JJ Watt Thanks Steelers’ Mike Tomlin With Heartwarming Message After Pittsburgh Visit

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been fortunate to have TJ Watt since drafting him in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. TJ has developed into one of the league's most valuable players, and without him, the Steelers struggle to win games. His importance to Pittsburgh is at an all-time high, and Steelers fans are eager to see him play in 2024, especially after being snubbed for the Defensive Player of the Year Award.

Before TJ, his brother JJ Watt was dominating the NFL. Over 12 seasons, JJ amassed 114.5 sacks. In just seven seasons, TJ has already recorded 96.5 sacks. JJ retired from the NFL after the 2022 season with the Arizona Cardinals. Though he's enjoying retirement, JJ occasionally teases a potential return to the NFL on social media, sometimes even hinting at the possibility of playing alongside TJ in Pittsburgh.

Steelers fans would love to see JJ suit up for one more season to play alongside his brother. In an conversation with Pat McAfee, JJ mentioned that 2024 will be the last season he keeps his phone on for a potential comeback.

On Tuesday, JJ visited Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin and attended a practice. While this doesn’t confirm a return to the field, it’s intriguing and will certainly fuel fans’ hopes of seeing JJ join TJ in Pittsburgh. However, it's more likely JJ was just visiting to watch his brother practice. Tomlin later shared a message on social media expressing his gratitude to JJ.

Tomlin was clearly thrilled to talk football with JJ. His statement rings true—having both JJ and TJ on the field for the 2024 season would be something extraordinary.

Tomlin is widely regarded as one of the NFL’s most respected and popular coaches. Known for being a player’s coach, he excels at leading and connecting with his team. Tomlin’s success stems not only from his deep football knowledge but also from his character. His players trust him, which has helped him achieve an impressive 17 straight winning seasons.

JJ picked up on that during his visit and responded to Tomlin’s social media post with a heartwarming message, showing that he thoroughly enjoyed his time in the Steel City.

The likelihood of JJ returning to the NFL is slim. At 35 years old, he remains in playing shape, as confirmed by former Steelers Head Coach Bill Cowher, who has grown close to JJ through their work at CBS. Cowher revealed that JJ is still physically capable of playing.

Steelers Would Be JJ Watt's Top Choice If He Did Return To Football

JJ teased a comeback during the 2023 season, stating he’d only return to play for the Houston Texans or the Steelers—if they truly needed him. However, he didn’t feel needed last season, so a return didn’t materialize. Steelers fans can still hold onto hope for one more season where JJ might team up with TJ.

At this stage in his life, JJ seems to be enjoying retirement, though he admits he misses the game at times. He likely knows he could still have a strong season, even at 35, but he’s also dealt with injuries and a heart issue. JJ is unlikely to jeopardize his health. He left the game of football at a young age because he wanted to leave on his own terms. It would take him changing his mind to return to the NFL.

Football is a violent sport, and JJ left in good condition. While it would be difficult to get him back on the field, Pittsburgh would be one of his top choices if he did. It’s great to see JJ supporting his brother and rooting for the Steelers.

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