J.J. Watt

J.J. Watt's Biography

Born on March 22, 1989, Justin James Watt is undoubtedly one of the most talented American football players of his generation. Best known as a former defensive end in the National Football League (NFL), Watt’s career stretched across 12 seasons, largely starring with the Houston Texans.

A native of Pewaukee, Wisconsin, Watt was born to Connie Watt, a building operations VP, and John Watt, a firefighter. Notably, he carries a legacy of football playing in his family, as both his younger brothers, Derek Watt and T.J. Watt, also played in the NFL. However, football wasn’t his first sporting love; Watt played ice hockey passionately from the age of four to 13. Still, he made a switch when weekly hockey games started to conflict with his schedule and for financial considerations. By the time he reached the fifth grade, football had won over his heart.

While attending Pewaukee High School, Watt displayed remarkable athleticism, earning letters in football, basketball, baseball, and track and field over four years. In his senior year, he was designated the Woodland Conference Player of the Year, earned first-team All-State, All-County, All-Area, and All-Conference as a tight end and defensive end, and was named his team’s MVP. Mirroring his father’s feat, Watt additionally competed in the shot put during his high school years, even capturing a state title in the 2007 WIAA Division II Championship.

Regardless, Watt entered college without major athletic acclaim, only considered a two-star recruit by Rivals.com and Scout.com. Nevertheless, he chose to attend Central Michigan University under coach Butch Jones. During his time at Central Michigan, he played 14 games, amassing 77 receiving yards and making 8 receptions. But after counselors suggested he transfer to offensive tackle, Watt chose to abandon his starting spot and scholarship to join the University of Wisconsin, where he played as a defensive end.

Watt’s audacious move to Wisconsin paid off. During his stint with the Wisconsin Badgers, he bagged the Wisconsin’s Scout Team Player of the Year award, saw action in 13 games as a defensive end, and led the team in tackles for loss, quarterback hurries, blocked kicks, and forced fumbles. This string of impressive performances quickly placed him on the NFL radar.

Elevating his draft stock with great performances in every combine category except the 40-yard dash, Watt was chosen by the Houston Texans as their first defensive end selection in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft. After a strong rookie year, Watt took the NFL by storm in his following seasons. By 2012, he became the first Houston Texan player to win an NFL Player of the Year accolade, stamped after a season in which he set franchise records for single-season sacks. His momentum continued in 2013 despite the Texans’ collective struggle.

In 2014, Watt’s extraordinary contributions to the defensive line and a few surprising offensive contributions thrust him into MVP consideration; although he ended up as the runner-up, he became the first defensive player since 2008 to even receive votes for the coveted award. Despite dealing with injuries, Watt had yet another productive campaign in 2015, leading the NFL in sacks.

However, beyond his notable performances on the field, Watt has made headlines outside the gridiron too. A testament to his philanthropic efforts came in 2017, when Sports Illustrated recognized Watt as its Sportsman of the Year.

Retiring in 2023 after a decorated career, Watt transitioned to media, taking on a new role as a studio analyst for The NFL Today.

In hindsight, Watt’s journey can be described as one of determination and audacity – traits that took him off the ice hockey rinks in Wisconsin to a successful career in the NFL, and ultimately to a role in football commentary. His remarkable career and life demonstrate what is possible when you follow your passion, work hard, and stay dedicated to your craft.