JJ Watt Jokes That He Wouldn't Join The Steelers For The Vet Min, But Still Has Plenty Left In The Tank

For a few years now, Pittsburgh Steelers fans have been adamant about getting the third Watt brother to town. Back in 2020, the team signed fullback and special teams ace Derek Watt. He joined his brother, TJ Watt, and has now been on the team for three seasons. Stephon Tuitt's early retirement has caused a huge need along the defensive line the past few years, so it was only right that fans tried to recruit JJ Watt.

Unfortunately, those hopes and dreams came to an end just over a month ago. After an impressive 12-year career, JJ announced his retirement after dealing with several injuries over the past few seasons. This past season, he had to have his heart shocked back into rhythm. While he returned to play a total of 16 games for the Arizona Cardinals, that seemed to have hit home for the future Hall of Famer. With a kid and wife in the fold, he decided it was best to hang it up.

Shortly after the retirement announcement, he proclaimed that he is now officially a Steelers fan. TJ and Derek being on the same team make it quite easy for him, as he can just cheer for one team now. Of course, he'll probably be cheering on his former teams, the Cardinals and Houston Texans as well. On Friday, JJ responded to a user on the prospect of signing with the Steelers on a veteran minimum deal. He joked that he loves them, but he doesn't love them THAT much.

The three-time AP Defensive Player of the Year also made it clear that he still has plenty left in the tank. Other factors kicked in, as his health and family are far more important than trying to play a few more years. In his 12th and final season, JJ finished with 12.5 sacks, which was tied for eighth in the NFL. That's quite impressive for a 33-year-old coming off a scary heart incident.

It was his best year since 2018 when he racked up 16 sacks and seven forced fumbles with the Texans. Had he stayed a bit more healthy, there's a legitimate possibility that JJ could have come to Pittsburgh at some point. They would have become the first trio of brothers to be on the same NFL team. It's unfortunate we'll never get to see that, but JJ deserves a healthy retirement. 

How dominant would JJ have been on Pittsburgh's defensive line with his brother by his side? Where does he rank amongst the best defenders of this generation? Who is better: TJ or JJ? Share your thoughts on this hilarious interaction in the comments below!

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