J.J. Watt, known for shaking up the NFL with his powerhouse defense, became a household name thanks to his dominant play and iconic moments. Three Defensive Player of the Year awards and rewriting the record books. But after he called it quits in 2022, fans started wondering what he’d do next. Spoiler alert: Watt still carries that competitive edge and continues making waves—but not in the way anyone expected.

Well, recently, Watt sparked some serious chatter when Burnley’s James Trafford joked about Watt joining Joe Burrow and the Bengals. Watt, staying true to his playful side, responded with. “You don’t allow a goal the rest of the season, and it’s a deal.” Naturally, Watt posted the exchange on X (formerly Twitter), with the caption: “This is starting to become a bit of a concern…”

This is starting to become a bit of a concern… pic.twitter.com/MrOdjRz2En

Bengals fans, of course, went wild, dreaming of Watt alongside Burrow. Let’s be real—while Watt stirred up excitement with his response, he likely won’t return to the NFL. He’s now living his best life as part-owner of Burnley FC and keeping himself busy with charity work and other ventures. Watt’s clearly thriving off the field, and his days of football glory seem done.

Watt wasn’t just a force on the field; he was a spectacle. One of his most iconic plays came in 2014 when he intercepted a pass from Derek Carr and took it 80 yards for a touchdown, showing off his athleticism and ability to change the game. He also dominated with 3.5 sacks against the Titans that same year, further proving his dominance as a pass-rusher. We can say, 2014 might be the golden year for Watt. Similar to Tom Brady’s 2012.

In his career, Watt put up crazy numbers: 114.5 sacks, 172 tackles for loss, and 26 forced fumbles across 151 games. Not to mention, his playoff dominance with 5.5 sacks and 12 tackles. Watt’s career, with five Pro Bowls and three DPOY awards, solidified him as one of the greatest.

While Bengals fans will keep dreaming about Watt and Burrow together, the impact Watt had on the NFL won’t fade. He’s retired, but his connection to football is far from over.

Young Burnley GK teases NFL legend

James Trafford, Burnley’s young goalkeeper, isn’t exactly the first name you’d expect to be reaching out to NFL legends. However, the 21-year-old shot his shot with J.J. Watt in a playful DM, asking if the retired defensive monster would consider joining Joe Burrow and the Bengals next season. Trafford, perhaps joking or maybe hoping to see Watt in a Bengals uniform, asked, “Quick one mate, fancy coming out of retirement for the bengals next season?”

Watt’s reply? Classic. As I mentioned above. While Trafford might have been joking, it’s clear the possibility of Watt joining the Bengals. Even if only in fantasy—had fans imagining a serious reunion with Burrow. Speaking of Burrow, if the ‘just a if’ situation is, Watt joining Burrow and taking the Bengals to the next level.

Like, seriously. That will be the duo everyone will watch. With Watt’s defense adding Burrow’s offense. It’s like, Bengals have one of the best offense, we have to agree with that, but defense is lacking, not a little bit though. So, with Watt’s defense, they will make an amazing comeback, they could even surpass the Chargers’ defense which is at 17.7 points average this season, while the Bengals have 25.5. But, it’s just a fantasy of a fan. It all depends on Watt if he decides to come.

The exchange went viral, sparking discussions about Watt’s potential return. But the question remains: was Trafford seriously considering Watt’s comeback, or was he just having some fun? Even if the latter is true, it’s clear that Watt’s competitive spirit still strikes a chord with athletes across the sports world.