The Houston Texans have gone through the trade deadline and managed to keep the guys in their locker room without engaging in any blockbuster deals.

However, numerous team and league sources believe it is a virtual certainty that defensive end JJ Watt is gone next season, with the five-time Pro Bowler adamant about finishing his career with a contender.

Via Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports:

“It's a wrap,” said one source with knowledge of the situation. “He knows he only has so many games left and he is ready to go and try to win. The guys in that locker room are bracing for it.”

Another source with knowledge of the situation said: “At the end of the day, Cal (owner Cal McNair) respects JJ too much to hold him back. I think everyone in their hearts already knows he is going to be moving on. He's done everything they could have ever asked for, and this chapter is closing.”

Watt, who turns 32 in March, is already nearing the twilight zone of his eventful career. He has already endured significant pain and injury especially after battling in the trenches for ten seasons already.

He previously expressed his sentiments about not wanting to endure a rebuild which was indicative of his desire to relocate to a winning team and give himself a shot at a championship before he decides to hang his cleats for good.

The Texans continue on their disappointing campaign even after firing former head coach and general manager Bill O'Brien to settle with a dismal 1-6 record halfway through the 2020 NFL season.

With their struggles not looking to end soon, expect JJ Watt to explore his options and look to play a role for a contending team in the near future.