Derek Watt

Derek Watt's Biography

Derek John Watt, born on November 7, 1992, is a former professional fullback in American football who has exhibited noteworthy sportsmanship through his illustrious career. Watt was born and raised in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, as one of the three sons of John Watt, a firefighter, and Connie, a vice president of building operations. Growing up, Watt was the middle child, sandwiched between his older brother Justin James (J. J.) Watt and younger brother Trent Jordan (T. J.) Watt, both of whom would also grow into reputable figures in the football world.

Watt embarked on his passion for football from an early age, honing his skills at Pewaukee High School before proceeding to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he notably played on the same team as his brother T. J. between 2012 and 2015. His tenure at the university from 2011 to 2015 was marked by significant contributions to the team’s offence, significantly aiding running back Melvin Gordon’s record-breaking career with the Badgers.

His performance varied throughout his university career, with 12 receptions for 150 receiving yards in the 2012 season. Watt had three receptions for 20 receiving yards in 2013, made appearances in three games during the 2014 season, and ended his college football journey with 15 receptions for 139 receiving yards in 2015. However, his influence was not limited to the statistics as his versatile contribution significantly impacted Gordon, eventually leading to their professional reunion later at San Diego Chargers.

Following graduation, Watt established his presence in the professional football industry when he was selected by the San Diego Chargers in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL draft (198th overall). Pro Football Focus rated Watt as the second-best fullback in his draft class, offering him high praise for his exceptional blocking abilities. He continued his superb performance at the Chargers from 2016 to 2019, where he emerged as a beneficial addition to the team, occupying roles as a running back, fullback and on special teams. Within this time, Watt played in all the 16 matches of the 2019 season and notably scored a rushing touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

In 2020, Watt united with his brother T. J. at the Pittsburgh Steelers, following a three-year, $9.75 million contract. He soon distinguished himself within the team, particularly after blocking a punt against the Denver Broncos that resulted in a safety. Despite facing a concussion in December 2020 after a clash with his former Badgers teammate Alex Erickson, Watt remained committed to the field with continued contributions on special teams and as a fullback.

The year 2022 saw Watt carry on his dedication to the sport, starting three out of the 17 games he appeared in, and famously caught a touchdown pass from wide receiver Chase Claypool against the Philadelphia Eagles. However, in 2023, without a team contract, Watt announced his retirement on March 12, 2024, concluding an illustrious career in American football.

Away from the field, Watt leads a charming personal life. Having married to Gabriella Justin in 2018, the couple welcomed their first child, Logan James Watt in February 2019, and later, their second son, Brayden George Watt, born in December 2020. Apart from his sporting endeavours, Watt featured in a Subway commercial with his family in 2020 and joined his brothers as hosts of the engaging TV show, Ultimate Tag. Even in retirement, his passion for football lives on, as does the indelible mark of his career.