The Houston Texans and star defensive end J.J. Watt decided to mutually part ways. Watt was due a base salary of $17.5 million, so the rebuilding Texans decided to move on from one of the greatest players in franchise history. It’s the end of an era in Houston.
Now the focus shifts to Watt’s next team. While Watt isn’t his old self, he is still an elite run stopper, finishing sixth best in PFF's defensive run grade.
For what team Watt will land on next, PointsBet Sportsbook has released the odds, and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears are the favorites to land the former NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Pittsburgh Steelers +150
The Steelers make logical sense, as both T.J. and Derek (J.J.’s brothers) are on the squad. In fact, T.J. immediately tweeted J.J. after the news came out to come join him in Pittsburgh. Last season, the Watts became the first trio of brothers to play in the same NFL game. How amazing would it be if they were all on the same team?
The Steelers would have to get creative when it comes to cap space but can you imagine J.J. on that defense? Pittsburgh finished the year with the best defensive DVOA in the league. If they add him, lookout. Also, it would make sense for the Steelers to sign Watt, especially if pass rusher Bud Dupree departs in free agency.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers +400
If Watt is trying to get a ring before calling his career a wrap, where better to go than Tampa Bay to join Tom Brady? The Bucs have a ton of decisions to make this offseason regarding their core, but maybe Watt takes less money to try to make a run at the trophy. If they could make it work, imagine Watt among guys like Devin White, Lavonte David, Shaquil Barrett and Jason Pierre-Paul (Assuming they can keep all those players). Adding Watt would probably make Ndamukong Suh expendable.
Another thing to keep in mind is the weather and Florida's state tax rules. Watt’s had multiple big injuries, so maybe the warm weather helps. When it comes to financials, every tax dollar saved is huge, especially if Watt takes less money to win.
Green Bay Packers +400
Watt is a Wisconsin native and grew up loving the Packers. Green Bay is an attractive option because they are built to win now. Of course, having the MVP in Aaron Rodgers helps, as does the fact that the Packers have been in the past two NFC Championship Games.
Green Bay doesn’t have a ton of projected cap space, but you can be sure a guy like CB Kevin King is going to be let go after his playoff performance. They can definitely free up some money to make it happen if a guy like Watt shows interest.
Chicago Bears +700
Defensively, a potential front four rotation of Khalil Mack, Eddie Goldman, Akiem Hicks, Robert Quinn and Watt would be nasty. Again, the Bears are another team that would have to jump through some hoops financially.
Another big factor is Watt’s wife, Kealia Ohai Watt, who currently plays for the Chicago Red Stars (NWSL). It seems like they enjoy the city and the food. I just stalked their Twitter page. Wishful thinking as a Bears fan.
New England Patriots +1100
A longshot to keep an eye on is the Patriots. If Watt is looking for one last payday, New England would be able to provide it, as they have the wiggle room given their cap situation to throw money at Watt. After a 7-9 season and Brady winning the Super Bowl, look for Bill Belichick to be aggressive this offseason. Watt in that Patriots defense would be scary.
Odds courtesy of PointsBet Sportsbook