Retired Arizona Cardinals defensive end J.J. Watt (99) Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

J.J. Watt reveals why he didn't join Steelers in 2021

When DE J.J. Watt was released by the Texans following the 2020 season, many predicted the three-time Defensive Player of the Year would join his two brothers on the Steelers. However, that didn't happen, and he finally reveals why.

"They were on the list. It certainly would have been awesome to play with my brothers, but T.J. was also going through the contract situation there, so the last thing I wanted to do was come in and take any money away from his contract," Watt said.

T.J. Watt certainly cashed in big, signing a four-year $112 million deal with Pittsburgh but it sure would have been cool to see the three Watt brothers play together at the biggest level.

J.J. Watt, who has since retired, still had some gas left in the tank as well. After playing in just seven games with the Cardinals in 2021, he posted 12.5 sacks, one forced fumble and seven passes defensed in his final season.

Derek Watt, who was primarily a special teamer, also left the Steelers in 2022 after a three-year run with the team. The 30-year-old is currently a free agent.

It is still surprising Pittsburgh didn't try to make it work as the team loves family ties and it's doubtful J.J. Watt would have done enough to get the Steelers back to the Super Bowl for the first time since the 2010 season but now we will never know.

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