J.J. Watt Reflects on DeMeco Ryans, the Texans’ Direction, and His NFL Future
J.J. Watt last suited up for the Houston Texans in 2020 before wrapping up his 12-year NFL career with two seasons as an Arizona Cardinal. Despite retiring, Watt remains one of the most iconic figures in Texans history. Recently, he shared high praise for Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans.
Watt and Ryans were teammates in Houston back in 2011—Watt’s rookie year and Ryans’ final season playing for the team.
Now entering his third year as the Texans’ head coach, Ryans has made a strong impression on Watt.
“I don’t think anything has shifted the organization’s direction more than DeMeco coming in,” Watt said at Texans minicamp on June 11. “Obviously, you have to include drafting C.J. [Stroud], Will [Anderson], and the other smart moves the front office made. But none of that happens without DeMeco leading the way. His leadership, football IQ, and the culture he’s instilled have been incredible. You see guys wanting to come play in Houston because of who he is and what he’s built.”
In 2024, the Texans finished sixth in total defense, 14th in points allowed, and ranked fourth in sacks—reflecting Ryans’ strong defensive identity.
Ryans Brings His “Swarm Mentality” to Houston
DeMeco Ryans’ coaching philosophy, rooted in his aggressive “swarm mentality” from his time with the 49ers, has taken hold in Houston.
“Our weekly focus is on attacking and taking the football. Turnovers increase your chances of winning, and that’s always the goal,” Ryans told reporters in January. “Our defense knows this, and they’ve fully bought in. You see it at practice, and it shows up on Sundays.”
He emphasized that the system only works if every player is committed.
“If you’re not about the swarm mentality, it’s going to be tough to play in our defense. That’s just how I see it,” Ryans said. “You could highlight Will [Anderson] as a leader, or Azeez [Al-Shaair], or [Derek] Stingley. There are so many guys who embody that mindset.”
Watt Talks Retirement and a Possible Comeback—Sort Of
Now a CBS Sports analyst for the upcoming 2025 season, Watt had a light-hearted exchange with Texans defensive line coach Rod Wright, who jokingly floated the idea of a return.
According to KPRC 2’s Ari Alexander, Wright told Watt, “It’s still on the table.”
Watt admitted the idea of playing again occasionally crosses his mind.
“I don’t know if that feeling ever fully goes away. I’ll always think I could still do it—that’s part of the problem,” Watt said. “Andre [Johnson] and I talk about it. You always feel like you’ve got a little left. But I’m truly at peace now. We’re expecting our second child, and life’s really good. I’m grateful.”
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