J.J. Watt has expressed that a potential comeback is unlikely, but he continues to inform DeMeco Ryans that he is willing to return if needed. This offer seems to extend to another team as well.
Watt reiterated his willingness to Ryans to return to the Texans in case of an emergency, as reported by The Athletic’s Dan Pompei. He stated that he would “absolutely” come back for a 13th season if asked by his former Texans teammate (subscription required). Pompei also mentioned that Watt’s offer to come out of retirement would apply to the Steelers as well, as revealed in an in-depth profile on Ryans.
It comes as no surprise that the Steelers are the second team on Watt’s emergency list, given that they have another Watt on a path to the Hall of Fame. J.J. Watt considered the Steelers during free agency in 2021 but decided against it to support his younger brother, T.J. Watt, who later secured his extension after J.J. Watt’s commitment to the Cardinals. While J.J. Watt spent three seasons with both T.J. and Derek Watt on the Steelers, he concluded his career with the Cardinals.
Despite having Cameron Heyward entering his 14th season with the team, the Steelers are facing contract challenges with him. The team also has players like Larry Ogunjobi, DeMarvin Leal, and the recently signed Dean Lowry on the roster. However, Watt has made it clear that it would take a significant change for him to consider returning to the Texans, a sentiment that likely applies to the Steelers too.
Now 35, Watt stated earlier this month that his comeback offer will expire after the 2024 season. Following a heart scare, Watt retired but remained available for the Cardinals and ended the 2022 season on a high note with impressive stats. Despite battling injuries in recent seasons, Watt’s accomplishments, including two 20-plus-sack seasons, remain unmatched in the sack era. A potential comeback in a limited role would be intriguing.
The former All-Decade team member is currently with CBS, but the speculation about his comeback persists. Any injuries affecting the defensive line depth of Houston or Pittsburgh will be something to watch as the season progresses.
