HOUSTON (KXAN) — As rumors fly that Houston Texans’ star quarterback Deshaun Watson may have already made a trade request, the team now faces the possible loss of another big name: its celebrity defensive end J.J. Watt.
According to Bleacher Report and NFL Network commentator Mike Garafolo, Watt wants “clarity” on his future with the franchise — and the team is aware that they have a decision to make.
“Is he going to be in Houston next year? A very open question, so much goes into it,” said NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport on Saturday. “He’s in the last year of his deal. It just makes me wonder: is this the end for J.J. Watt in Houston?”
Watt, 31, has been one of the teams most notable — if not the most notable — player for nearly 10 years. He’s gone on to star in countless advertisement campaigns, endorsement deals and has even hosted Saturday Night Live.
But his future in the Space City is now uncertain at a time of big changes among the Texans overall. In addition to the possible loss of Watson, the team has also hired a new head coach, Adam Schefter, according to ESPN reports.
The Texans’ loss to the Tennessee Titans on Jan. 3 not only ended the team’s season, but also, NFL Network says, may signal several endings.
But a re-sign with Watt at this point of big change doesn’t seem likely, Garafolo said on Saturday.
“In Watt’s case, it doesn’t seem like the Texans, who now have a new regime coming in would re-set the table and give him a long-term extension,” said Garafolo. “If that’s the case and you’re entering that last year, then perhaps, it may be best to just let him go and get a fresh start elsewhere. He’s been through so much. He certainly wants to play for a winner.”
