JJ Watt, widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, could find himself contemplating a return to the league. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year and five-time first-team All-Pro recently entered the world of soccer as a minority owner of Burnley Football Club. However, a lighthearted bet with Burnley’s goalkeeper, James Trafford, might be pulling Watt back toward the gridiron.
Trafford, a 22-year-old standout keeper and rising star in international soccer, texted Watt in late December, asking, “Fancy coming out of retirement for the Bengals next season?” Watt, known for his competitive spirit, jokingly replied, “You don’t allow a goal the rest of the season and it’s a deal.”
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What seemed like an impossible challenge at the time has turned into a surprisingly plausible scenario. Since that exchange, Trafford has started in six of Burnley’s last seven matches and has yet to concede a single goal in any of them. Burnley has benefited greatly from Trafford’s stellar performances, going unbeaten during that stretch.
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A surprising soccer journey for Watt
Watt and his wife, Kealia, became part-owners of Burnley in 2023, shortly after the club’s relegation from the English Premier League. While the team now sits in the English Football League Championship, they’ve mounted an impressive campaign, with one of the league’s best defensive records.
Trafford, a key factor in Burnley’s resurgence, has proven himself to be one of the top young goalkeepers in the game. If he can maintain his current form and lead Burnley to promotion, Watt may need to reconsider his playful promise.
Could Watt return to the NFL?
While the idea of Watt coming out of retirement seems far-fetched, the former Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals star has left the door slightly ajar. At just 34 years old, Watt still possesses the physicality and leadership that made him a dominant force in the league.
With 17 league matches remaining for Burnley this season, Trafford’s streak faces its toughest tests yet. However, if he manages to keep Watt’s challenge alive, fans of both soccer and football might witness one of the most unexpected comebacks in sports history.