Texans star J.J. Watt could still play again this season

Houston Texans stud defensive end J.J. Watt has not played since suffering a torn pectoral muscle back in Week 8 against the Oakland Raiders.

While it seemed like the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year would miss the remainder of the season, that might no longer be the case.

Speaking to the media following Sunday’s huge win over the Tennessee Titans, Texans head coach Bill O’Brien seemed optimistic that Watt could come off injured reserve and play again this season.

#Texans coach Bill O’Brien was asked about the possibility of JJ Watt returning off Injured reserve this season, and it sounds pretty positive: "He's certainly made progress based on his work ethic and who he's working with in the training room. We will see."

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 16, 2019

That’s some pretty big news for the 9-5 Texans as they look to wrap up the AFC South and earn a playoff spot.

Injuries of this ilk tend to be more long-term in nature, but Watt is a completely different animal. We can bet that he’s spent nearly 24 hours a day rehabbing from this injury.

Watt, 30, has recorded 20 quarterback hits and four sacks in eight games this season. Despite missing the past six outings, he still ranks second on the Texans in sacks.