Texans’ Star DE J.J. Watt: “I’m Not Looking to Rebuild”

J.J. Watt with Texans in 2018
J.J. Watt with Texans in 2018. Photo by Trask Smith/CSM/REX/Shutterstock (10043658c)

Things don’t look all that good for Houston Texans at the moment. The franchise that won AFC South four times in the last five years is currently enjoying a disappointing 1-6 start of the 2020 NFL season, has recently fired their general manager and head coach, and is devoided of their first and second-round picks next year.

Many believe that these issues will prompt Texans to head towards a rebuild soon, which would mean a weaker roster and being out of the Super Bowl conversation. While such a scenario might benefit Texans in the long run, it would also mean that some of their main players like J.J. Watt will want to move on.

During a recent chat with reporters, Watt said that he isn’t interested in a rebuild and hinted that he might not finish the career in Houston if the organization decides to head down that path.

“I’m not looking to rebuild,” said Watt when asked whether he believes he’ll retire as a Texan. “I’m looking to go after a championship, and that’s what I want to do. So, whatever is in the best interest of the Houston Texans, that’s in the best interest of myself.”

Since being drafted by Texans in 2011, J.J. Watt emerged as one of the most disruptive forces in the NFL. He racked up 99.0 sacks in his pro career and is on pace to become the fifth-fastest player to reach 100.0 in the history of the league. Watt would most likely get to the mark even quicker if he hadn’t spent significant time on Injured Reserve since 2016.

If Houston really wants to rebuild, then trading Watt would probably be their best option to replenish their draft assets. Despite turning 31 in March and struggling with injuries lately, Watt would definitely have plenty of suitors around the league who would pay top price to get him.

The move could also work for Watt, especially if he joins a Super Bowl contender. He hasn’t advanced past Divisional Playoffs with Houston. 

Harley loves music and tries to go to a music festival every summer. When he's not listening to music, he writes about movies, food and wine, art, and sport.