Former Los Angeles Charger Derek Watt has announced his retirement from the NFL. The 31-year-old fullback played seven seasons in the NFL but was unable to sign with a team for the 2023 season.
Watt was originally drafted by the Chargers in 2016 as a sixth-round pick out of Wisconsin and spent four seasons with the Chargers from 2016-2019.
Watt announced his retirement with a lengthy statement thanking the many family members, coaches, teammates, and teams that helped him along the way. He specifically shouted out the Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers — the two teams he played for — in his statement.
“To the Chargers and Steelers … I can’t thank the Spanos Family and the Rooney Family enough for the opportunities that you provided me with! It was an honor to be a part of and represent two great opportunities.”
— Derek Watt.
The Chargers reposted Watt's message on X and congratulated him on his career.
"Once a Charger, always a Charger. Congrats on ur retirement, Derek Watt."
During his career, Watt carried the ball 29 times for 71 yards and two touchdowns. He also caught 18 passes for 178 yards and one touchdown.
Now, two members of one of the NFL's best football families have retired, with brother and three-time Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt retiring after the 2023 season. Steelers' T.J. Watt remains in the NFL, as one of the best sack artists in the league.
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