After being released by the Houston Texans back on February 12th, JJ Watt has hit the free-agent market for the first time in his NFL career. The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year has already garnered plenty of interest from numerous teams around the league.
John Clayton clarified his report on JJ Watt on Wednesday, mentioning multiple teams interested in JJ Watt.
People are misinterpreting what I said on radio today. I said Tennessee, Green Bay and Buffalo were the leading teams for J.J. Watt but not the final three. Watt hasn't narrowed his list. The Cleveland Browns are still in. So are the Raiders. He has a dozen teams after him.
— Family of John Clayton (@JohnClaytonNFL) February 24, 2021
The five-time Pro Bowler is already receiving contract offers. According to ESPN, “Multiple sources told Russini that the most lucrative offer Watt currently has on the table is believed to be worth between $15 million and $16 million.”
Sounds like JJ Watt is going to be receiving a nice payday, despite turning 32 years old this coming March. However, Watt still has plenty of gas left in the tank. During the 2020 season, the former Houston Texan finished with 52 total tackles, five sacks, two forced fumbles, and an interception returned for a touchdown.
It's unknown which franchise has offered Watt this lucrative deal. According to Clayton, the top three favorites are the Tennessee Titans, Green Bay Packers, and the Buffalo Bills. Although, the Cleveland Browns or the Las Vegas Raiders may have been one of the teams who made a large offer, considering these two franchises have been busy during the offseason in recent years.
Don't expect JJ Watt to sign anytime soon, as he's likely going to take his time with his decision. At this point in his career, money is probably not a top priority. He is going to want to play for a team he feels gives him the best chance to win a Super Bowl.
I scroll through door dash for like an hour before I pick a restaurant man…
You’re gonna have to give me a second to choose a new team and city. https://t.co/eQXD3eNVFJ
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) February 22, 2021
With that said, the race for JJ Watt has officially begun. This should be one of the more exciting NFL offseasons, as teams will be making maneuvers to push their teams forward in the 2021 season.