(RADIO.COM Sports) The Houston Texans and star defensive end J.J. Watt announced Friday that they're parting ways. Watt was due a base salary of $17.5 million next season, so the rebuilding Texans decided to move on from one of the greatest players in franchise history by releasing him. 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's still an elite run stopper, finishing sixth-best in Pro Football Focus' defensive run grade.
So where will Watt land 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 Watt's brothers T.J. and Derek are on the squad. In fact, T.J. immediately tweeted J.J. after the news came out, asking him 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 need to get creative in their cap space, but can you imagine Watt on that defense? Pittsburgh had best defensive DVOA in the NFL last season. If the Steelers add Watt, look out. It would also make sense for the Steelers to sign Watt considering pass rusher Bud Dupree could depart in free agency.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers +400
If Watt is trying to win a ring before calling his career a wrap, where better to go than Tampa Bay to join star quarterback Tom Brady and the defending champions? The Bucs have a ton of decisions to make this offseason regarding their core, but maybe Watt would take less money to try to make a run at a championship.
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. And 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 it's built to win now. Of course, having the MVP in star quarterback 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 lot of projected cap space, but cornerback Kevin King is likely going to be let go after his playoff performance. So the Packers can definitely free up some money to make it happen if Watt shows interest.
Chicago Bears +700
If Watt were to join the likes of Akiem Hicks, Eddie Goldman and Khalil Mack, it would give the Bears a nasty front and strong pass rush. Of course, the Bears are another team that would have to jump through some hoops to open up salary cap space.
A factor to note here is that Watt’s wife, Kealia Ohai Watt, currently plays for the Chicago Red Stars of the NWSL. Judging from their social media accounts, it seems like they enjoy the city and the food.
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 it has the cap space to throw money at Watt. After the Patriots' 7-9 season and Brady's win in the Super Bowl, look for coach Bill Belichick to be aggressive this offseason.