The notion that the Pittsburgh Steelers might eventually sign J.J. Watt to reunite him with his brother T.J. is gradually diminishing, though it’s not entirely out of the question. Fans will likely continue to dream of the Watt brothers making an impact on the field together in Steelers colors until J.J. explicitly states that he won’t return.
Currently, however, it seems he’s just having fun with the speculation.
For those who may not know, Watt and his wife Kealia hold minority ownership in Burnley Football Club in England. Recently, Burnley’s goalkeeper, James Trafford—who is a fan of the Cincinnati Bengals—joked with Watt about a playful wager that could see him return to the NFL. Instead of playing for the Steelers, this hypothetical scenario would have him joining their AFC North rivals.
“How about coming out of retirement for the Bengals next season?” Trafford joked.
Watt replied, “You don’t allow a goal the rest of the season and it’s a deal.”
This could be a nightmare scenario for Steelers fans, leading to some uncomfortable family dinners for the Watt clan. It would also be ironic if J.J. spent the past two years around the Steelers’ facilities only to end up with the Bengals.
This light-hearted banter from Watt will undoubtedly excite many fans. Nevertheless, one has to believe that if he ever decided to return to the NFL, the Steelers would be the first team he would contact.
