J.J. Watt Plays Football with His Son at NRG Stadium
It was a heartfelt homecoming for J.J. Watt in Houston. Before calling Sunday’s matchup between his former Houston Texans and the Jacksonville Jaguars, the 36-year-old CBS Sports announcer and retired NFL star shared a tender moment on the field with his 3-year-old son, Koa, at NRG Stadium — the same field where he built his legendary career.
“It was the best,” Watt said. “This was such a cool morning for me to have my wife, Kealia, and my son, Koa, out on the field. Obviously, so many memories in this building, so many great throwbacks, and to see him run into that end zone, the same one I’ve run into before, just unbelievable feeling this morning.”
Drafted 11th overall out of Wisconsin in the 2011 NFL Draft, Watt spent ten dominant seasons with the Texans. He earned Defensive Player of the Year honors three times and was named First-team All-Pro five times, cementing his status as one of the league’s all-time defensive greats.
Following the 2020 season, Watt requested his release from the Texans and went on to sign a two-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals. His time in Arizona was marked by determination and resilience, especially after suffering a midseason shoulder injury in 2021 that required surgery.
In 2022, Watt faced another health challenge when he revealed that he had experienced atrial fibrillation and had his heart shocked back into rhythm — a moment that underscored both the physical and emotional highs and lows of his career.
Legacy Beyond the Field
Now in his broadcast career, Watt continues to inspire fans and athletes alike — and moments like his playful toss with Koa remind people that his most meaningful victories may come off the field.
Author’s Summary: J.J. Watt’s touching return to NRG Stadium with his son highlights his deep connection to Houston and the enduring impact of his football journey.