Cardinals' J.J. Watt addresses potential of facing Rams

Arizona Cardinals defensive end J.J. Watt Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Cardinals' J.J. Watt on facing Rams: 'We'll make that decision as Monday comes closer'

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 1/12/22

Arizona Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury said earlier on Wednesday that star pass-rusher J.J. Watt has "basically done everything humanly possible" to play in Monday's prime-time wild-card game at the Los Angeles Rams coming off the serious shoulder injury that's kept the three-time Defensive Player of the Year out of action for over two months.

Watt spoke with reporters later in the day but was unable to offer any guarantees about his status past the weekend.

J.J. Watt on if he will play Monday night against Los Angeles:

"We'll make that decision as Monday comes closer."
— Kevin Parrish Jr (@KevinParrishJr) January 12, 2022

According to Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk, Watt added he's worked with offensive linemen to simulate in-game contact ahead of Thursday's practice session, and the 32-year-old likely won't have any real knowledge about his potential availability for Monday's game until he works out in a team setting.

One thing missing on Watt's Hall of Fame résumé is a Super Bowl appearance, let alone a championship ring, so it's a safe bet the five-time All-Pro would be willing to face the Rams at less than 100% if Kingsbury ultimately allows it.

However, Kingsbury and company may elect to protect the veteran from himself, especially if it's thought Watt could worsen the surgically repaired shoulder with the Cardinals still multiple wins away from a potential Super Bowl berth.

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