Texas legend JJ Watt teases possible NFL return while hosting charity softball game in Houston after retiring during 2022 season

Houston, Texas — JJ Watt is keeping the door slightly ajar on a possible return to the NFL if the Houston Texans need him, but this is the last year he will say that.

Watt, who retired after the 2022 season, made his comments Saturday while hosting his annual charity softball game in Houston.

“I’m a very lucky man, I have a beautiful wife and I have a beautiful son. I’ve had 12 great years in this league and I’m very grateful to have come away healthy and doing well. played,” he told reporters. “I told DeMeco Ryans last year, ‘Don’t call unless you absolutely have to, but if you ever call, I’ll be here.’ And he knows not to call unless he absolutely has to. This is the last year I’ll tell him that, because I’m not going to continue training like I’ve been doing. “

Watt, 35, and Ryans played together for the Texans in 2011, which was Watt’s first season in the NFL and Ryans’ last with the Texans. Ryans was hired as coach of the Texans last year and led Houston (10-7) to the AFC South division title and a wild-card victory over the Cleveland Browns.

“He knows that if he really needs it, I’ll be there for him,” Watt said. “But I don’t expect that to happen because they have a very good crew. I hope everyone stays very healthy, they dominate and they don’t need body, and I can just watch it and enjoy it from the couch.

Ryans was asked Monday about Watt’s comments at the Texans charity golf classic.

“I love hearing JJ say he’s ready. I have his number ready in case we need him,” Ryans told reporters.

When asked under what circumstances he would call Watt, Ryans responded with a laugh: “I need him now. I need to make that call now. Anytime JJ Watt is ready to go, I’m ready to go .”

The Texans strengthened their passing group this offseason by signing Danielle Hunter And Denico Autry. They also have Will Anderson Jr., the third overall pick in last year’s draft, who had seven sacks in his rookie season.

Watt won Defensive Rookie of the Year and three Defensive Player of the Year awards in 10 seasons with the Texans. He finished his career with 114.5 sacks.

Watt is an NFL analyst for CBS Sports. He and his wife, Kealia, also became minority owners of English football club Burnley FC last year.