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Wisconsin Football Legend Goes Into Houston Texans Ring of Honor

Originally posted on Badger Notes | By Dillon Graff | Last updated 10/1/23

.Wisconsin Badgers football legend and former Houston Texans defensive end JJ Watt has carved a legacy that will forever be etched in the annals of NFL history.

His relentless pursuit of excellence, unmatched work ethic, and unwavering commitment to the game have propelled him to the highest echelons of the sport. It is with great honor and admiration that the Houston Texans organization has officially inducted Watt into their prestigious Ring of Honor, cementing his status as one of the franchise’s greatest players.

The Wisconsin Badgers Football Legend: J.J. Watt

Before becoming an NFL superstar, J.J. Watt embarked on his college football career with a one-year stop at Central Michigan before transferring to the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Little did anyone know that this walk-on player would go on to become one of the most iconic and dominant defensive linemen in the history of Wisconsin football.

As a member of the Badgers, Watt showcased his game-wrecking skill set as a playmaking defensive end. He garnered numerous accolades, including the Ronnie Lott Trophy, academic All-Big Ten recognition, All-Big Ten first-team, All-American honors, and was voted the team’s MVP in 2010.

During his sophomore and junior seasons with the Wisconsin football program, JJ Watt registered 106 tackles, 36.5 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, five pass deflections, and one interception.

His dominant performances while donning the Cardinal and White caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection as the 11th overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans.

Reflecting on Watt’s Houston Texans Career

From the moment J.J. Watt took the field for the Houston Texans, he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with.

Watt recorded an impressive 5.5 sacks, 56 tackles, and two fumble recoveries in his rookie season. However, it was in the 2012 season that the former Wisconsin football star truly announced his arrival on the national stage.

During that memorable year, Watt showcased his unparalleled athleticism, grit, and work ethic, wreaking havoc on opposing offenses. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback led to an astounding 20.5 sacks, a feat rarely achieved by a defensive player.

JJ Watt became the first player in NFL history to record at least 15 sacks and 15 passes defended in a single season. Watt’s exceptional performance earned him a plethora of accolades, including the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award.

Watt’s illustrious NFL career is punctuated by his remarkable achievements, making him a football icon. A three-time Defensive Player of the Year, Watt finished his career with 114.5 sacks and 448 solo tackles. Those gaudy numbers earn him five All-Pro selections, two NFL sack leader titles, and two seasons with 20 or more sacks.

The former Wisconsin football legend further solidified his legacy as a member of the 2010s All-decade team, cementing his status as one of the NFL’s greatest defensive players of his era.

During his tenure with the Houston Texans, Watt became the face of the franchise, embodying the spirit and resilience of the city of Houston. Beyond his on-field contributions, Watt’s philanthropic efforts endeared him to the community, raising millions of dollars for disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Harvey in 2017.

J.J. Watt Receives Houston Texans Ring of Honor Induction

On October 1, 2023, the Houston Texans organization bestowed its highest honors upon JJ Watt as they inducted him into their esteemed Ring of Honor.

This recognition is a testament to Watt’s exceptional NFL career and impact on the franchise. Watt will join an exclusive group of individuals who have left an indelible mark on the Houston Texan’s history, forever immortalized within NRG Stadium.