J.J. Watt tells DeMeco Ryans he is still training, ready only if Texans need him

Don't rule out a J.J. Watt comeback just yet.

While it seems unlikely, Watt has not closed the door on a potential return to football.

Think about it. The Houston Texans, where Watt played his first 10 NFL seasons and won three Defensive Player of the Year awards, are on the rise.

It is a far better situation than the one he left after the 2020 season, or when he retired after two seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. Watt spent last season in a part-time analyst role with CBS Sports.

He is enjoying retirement, but did not rule out a return when asked at his charity classic softball game how he resists, given the Texans' potential.

"I told DeMeco last year, 'don't call unless you absolutely need it, but if you ever do call I'll be there.' And he knows not to call unless he absolutely needs it. This is the last year I'll tell him that because I'm not going to keep training I've been training. But he knows he ever truly does need it, I'll be there for him. But I don't anticipate that happening. They have a very good crew."

Not only would it be major for the Texans' best defensive player to rejoin the team after being named to the Ring of Honor. It would also be a tremendous opportunity for Watt, who left the game without winning that elusive Super Bowl ring.

They have reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year on one edge and free agent newcomer Danielle Hunter on the other. Hunter is an accomplished pass rusher with four Pro Bowl appearances and a second-team All Pro.

The Texans also signed Denico Autry in free agency. Autry had a career-high 11.5 sacks last season.

But now you're on notice. If something happens with any of those guys, Watt could be the next man up.