J.J. Watt, one of the most iconic names in the NFL, has built a remarkable career that continues to influence the sports world even after his retirement. With an impressive track record that spans over 12 seasons in professional football, Watt has now transitioned into a new chapter, joining CBS as a studio analyst. Alongside his successful career on the field, J.J. Watt’s net worth has also grown significantly, making him one of the wealthiest former athletes today. But his journey doesn’t stop there.
As fans reflect on his illustrious career, comparisons between J.J. Watt and his younger brother, T.J. Watt, a standout player for the Pittsburgh Steelers, continue to fuel debates about their achievements. J.J. Watt’s retirement has also sparked renewed interest in his career stats, family background, and personal life, including his marriage to soccer star Kealia Watt.
Key Takeaways
- J.J. Watt is a retired NFL player with a career spanning 12 seasons, primarily with the Houston Texans and later with the Arizona Cardinals.
- His net worth is estimated at $70 million as of 2024.
- After retiring, Watt joined CBS as a studio analyst.
- His younger brother, T.J. Watt, is also a major player in the NFL, creating a dynamic sibling rivalry in the league.
- J.J. Watt’s personal life, including his marriage to Kealia Watt and his role as a father, is frequently in the spotlight.
J.J. Watt’s Career Highlights
J.J. Watt, born Justin James Watt on March 22, 1989, started his football journey at the University of Wisconsin before being drafted by the Houston Texans in 2011. His impact on the field was immediate, and he quickly became one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history.
Over his 12-season career, Watt recorded 114.5 career sacks, making him one of the top sack leaders in the league. Known for his unmatched work ethic, Watt won the prestigious Defensive Player of the Year award three times. He also holds impressive career stats, including 449 solo tackles, 137 assists, 17 fumble recoveries, and two interceptions. Despite injuries that slowed him down in later seasons, Watt’s legacy as a defensive powerhouse remains untouchable.
Watt played for the Houston Texans until 2020, after which he signed a two-year, $28 million contract with the Arizona Cardinals. His time with the Cardinals was short-lived, however, as he announced his retirement at the end of the 2022 season.
J.J. Watt and T.J. Watt – A Tale of Two Brothers
One of the most fascinating aspects of J.J. Watt’s career is his relationship with his younger brother, T.J. Watt, who plays as an outside linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers. T.J. has quickly built his own legacy, recently joining the prestigious 100 career sacks club—a feat his older brother welcomed him into with a friendly, competitive spirit.
While J.J. dominated his position as a defensive end, T.J. continues to make waves as one of the most talented linebackers in the league. The comparison between the two is often brought up in conversations, with fans debating over T.J. vs. J.J. Watt stats and wondering if the younger Watt can surpass the older in terms of achievements.
Comparing J.J. and T.J. Watt’s Career Stats
| Player | Career Sacks | Solo Tackles | Assists | Fumble Recoveries | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| J.J. Watt | 114.5 | 449 | 137 | 17 | 2 |
| T.J. Watt | 100+ | Continuing | Continuing | Continuing | Continuing |
While T.J. is still early in his career compared to J.J., the numbers show that both brothers have had significant impacts on the field. However, the question of who is better, J.J. or T.J. Watt, remains subjective and largely depends on what fans value more in a player—career longevity, personal awards, or sheer impact.
J.J. Watt’s Personal Life – Family, Wife, and Life After the NFL
Off the field, J.J. Watt is known for his tight-knit family and his marriage to Kealia Watt, a professional soccer player. The two married in 2020 and welcomed their son, Koa, in 2022, just before J.J.’s retirement. Watt’s family has always played a significant role in his career, with his brothers, T.J. and Derek Watt, both active in the NFL. The Watt family is often seen as one of the most talented and tight-knit families in the world of sports.
In addition to his family life, Watt has ventured into the world of broadcasting, joining CBS as a studio analyst after his retirement. Fans are excited to see how Watt’s experience on the field translates into his new role, as he brings expert analysis and insights into NFL games.
J.J. Watt’s Net Worth – How He Built His Wealth
As of 2024, J.J. Watt’s net worth is estimated at $70 million, thanks to a combination of his NFL contracts, endorsement deals, and smart investments. Watt’s last contract, a two-year, $28 million deal with the Arizona Cardinals, significantly boosted his earnings, but his endorsements with brands like Reebok, Gatorade, and Ford also played a substantial role in increasing his fortune.
Beyond his football earnings, Watt is known for his philanthropic efforts. He famously raised over $37 million for Hurricane Harvey relief, showcasing his commitment to giving back to the community.
Summary of J.J. Watt’s Career and Net Worth
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $70 million (2024) |
| Career Sacks | 114.5 |
| Retirement | End of 2022 season |
| Last Contract | 2-year, $28 million with Arizona Cardinals |
| Current Role | CBS Studio Analyst |
FAQ
How old is J.J. Watt?
J.J. Watt was born on March 22, 1989, making him 35 years old as of 2024.
Who does J.J. Watt play for now?
J.J. Watt retired from the NFL after the 2022 season and no longer plays for any team. He currently works as a studio analyst for CBS.
What is J.J. Watt’s net worth?
J.J. Watt’s net worth is estimated at $70 million as of 2024, thanks to his NFL contracts, endorsements, and other ventures.
Who is J.J. Watt’s wife?
J.J. Watt is married to Kealia Watt, a professional soccer player. They tied the knot in 2020 and have a son named Koa.
Is T.J. Watt related to J.J. Watt?
Yes, T.J. Watt is J.J. Watt’s younger brother. T.J. plays as an outside linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
How many career sacks does J.J. Watt have?
J.J. Watt recorded 114.5 career sacks during his 12-season NFL career.
What team did J.J. Watt play for?
J.J. Watt played the majority of his career with the Houston Texans and finished his career with the Arizona Cardinals.
Is T.J. Watt better than J.J. Watt?
Both brothers have had impressive NFL careers, and while J.J. has retired, T.J. continues to build his legacy. The debate over who is better is subjective and depends on individual preferences.