J.J. Watt hinted not so long ago that his NFL career might be cut short due to injuries, but now that he’s healthy again he’s singing a different tune.
On Friday ahead of Houston’s Week 11 game against Washington, Watt addressed his future, per Brian T. Smith of the Houston Chronicle, ruling out retirement at this time.
Watt's 29, in Year 8 and has overcome major injuries. Retirement is not on the table. "I have no clue. In the past, I’ve thought more about it than I have, obviously, ever. But, no, I’m enjoying it. I’m loving it. I’m loving playing, I’m loving the competition …
— Brian T. Smith (@BTSmithUK) November 16, 2018
… I’m loving working every day. I love the guys, I love the team, I love the fans. And it feels really good to be in a place where I can say all that stuff again, because I haven’t been able to for a couple years." #Texans
— Brian T. Smith (@BTSmithUK) November 16, 2018
This is obviously the best possible news for Watt, the Texans, and their fans. And as for how it all came about, Watt credits his girlfriend Kealia Ohai for helping him to rediscover himself.
Watt on Ohai: "She’s … the one who helped build my confidence back up and remind me who I am and what I’m capable of, when there were days I wondered if I could ever be that person again. She really helped build that person back up and I’m really thankful." #Texans
— Brian T. Smith (@BTSmithUK) November 16, 2018
He’s been a dynamo this year after missing the better part of the past two seasons with devastating injuries. And though he didn’t specifically say he was motivated by doubters, Watt did reveal none of the criticism leveled his way escaped him.
Watt on worst things he heard at his lowest point during rehab: "I heard everything from, ‘Trade him, cut him, he should be gone.’ I heard it all. Washed up, obviously. You hear tons and tons of things. But I heard those when I was healthy, too." #Texans
— Brian T. Smith (@BTSmithUK) November 16, 2018
So far through nine games, Watt has racked up 32 tackles, nine sacks and four forced fumbles. The nine sacks ranks fourth in the league at this time.
Even better is that, ever since Houston lost its first three games, the Texans haven’t lost and are sitting atop the AFC South with a record of 6-3 heading into the home stretch.