The Houston Texans released J.J. Watt on Friday after the star defensive end asked to be let go.
Watt has been a fixture in Houston since the franchise selected him in the first round of the 2011 draft. Watt has won three NFL Defensive Player of the Years awards, but the last came in 2015.
He’s dealt with a series of injuries in recent years, limiting his time on the field. Watt played all 16 games in 2020 for just the second time since 2015, finishing with five sacks, two forced fumbles and a pick-six. Watt was limited in 2019, but he recorded 16 sacks in 2018. He has 101 sacks in his career, 282 quarterback hits and 531 tackles.
“I have sat down with the McNair family and I have asked them for my release, and we have mutually agreed to part ways at this time,” Watt said in a video he tweeted.
Houston, I wanted you to hear this directly from me… pic.twitter.com/YqT3P6Lb6l
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) February 12, 2021
Watt also won the 2017 Walter Payton Man of the Year award after he led a fundraising campaign during Hurricane Harvey. He raised more than $37 million in 19 days.
Watt expressed his desire to continue playing football elsewhere but acknowledged that leaving behind the only team he’s known is difficult.
“I’m excited and looking forward to a new opportunity,” Watt said. “I’ve been working extremely hard. But at the same time, it is always tough to move on. And I just want you guys to know that I love you, I appreciate you, and I appreciate the McNair family for drafting me and giving me my first opportunity in the NFL. Thank you, Houston. I love you.”
Watt might not be the only seismic shift in Houston this offseason. Quarterback Deshaun Watson has requested a trade.
• Andy Kostka can be reached at akostka@washingtontimes.com.
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