Texans Reportedly Saving Roster Spot and Holding Out Hope JJ Watt Could Return This Year
By Michael Luciano
The Houston Texans could get a major boost as they look to scrap and claw their way to an AFC South title, as their All-Pro defensive end could be back in time for the postseason.
Houston is saving a roster spot for edge rusher JJ Watt, who was originally believed to be out for the rest of the season with a torn pec. However, Watt could return for the playoffs, or even sooner.
Think you’ve seen the last of #Texans star JJ Watt this season? Think again… Sources say Watt could return for the playoffs and Houston is saving an IR/to return spot for him ??. My story: https://t.co/18gehFxRaZ
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 1, 2019
Watt has just four sacks in eight games this season, but has managed to record an astounding 20 quarterback hits.
For comparison, Cameron Jordan and Chandler Jones, who have the two highest sack totals in the league, have 22 and 15 quarterback hits, respectively. And Watt hasn't played since October.
J.J. Watt is still tied for 2nd in QB hits/knockdowns. He hasn't played football in a month.
— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) November 27, 2019
The sack numbers might not be as gaudy as they have been in previous years, but Watt remains one of the most transformative defensive players in all of football, and getting him back in time for the playoffs would be nothing short of game-changing for Bill O'Brien and the Texans.