J.J. Watt opens up about his special connection to Bengals

What stands out is that Watt wasn't talking like someone trying to score points with a fan base. His answer felt personal. While the Bengals were never his team, he articulated a relationship that had formed organically over time. Not every NFL relationship is built through wearing the uniform, and Watt's comments show that some ties are formed through shared history rather than shared colors.

Watt believes Joe Burrow gives the Bengals a championship window

Watt went on to discuss how the defense in Cincinnati has improved and how important it is to build around a quarterback like Joe Burrow.

"Huge, obviously, that defense is the area that they want to and need to improve the most," Watt said, per WLWT-TV. "When you have a quarterback like Joe Burrow, you have a chance in this league. So you have to do everything humanly possibly to give your squad the best opportunity, and making a move like that signals that they're trying to do that."

Watt's comment rings true for the current state of the NFL. Teams will spend a decade trying to find a Burrow, and once they do, all decisions with that club will be scrutinized for whether they maximize the team's Super Bowl window. Offensively, it has rarely been Cincinnati's biggest issue. 

More often than not, it has been the defense that's separated the deep playoff teams from the ones who exited early. 

Watt recognized the Bengals don't need to re-invent themselves; they just need a defense that can play complementary football to one of the league's best quarterbacks.

A respect for Cincinnati that grew over time

Watt's comments offered an inside look at the relationship that he has developed with the city of Cincinnati and the Bengals over time. With a sentimental attachment to both, as well as an inherent trust in the team's future direction, Watt's glowing review was evident throughout his interview. 

Whether it was through historic matchups or simple interactions through the years, it's safe to say that the Hall of Famer is a believer in the team, even from retirement, and views the Bengals as a force to be reckoned with within the AFC.