The New York Post – The Houston Texans’ offseason of turmoil continues.
Star defensive end JJ Watt was released by the team on Friday, according to several reports. Additionally, Watt posted a video to his Twitter account confirming his release.
“I have sat down with the McNair family and I have asked for my release, and we have mutually agreed to part ways at this time,” Watt said in the video.
“I came here ten years ago as a kid from Wisconsin who had never really been to Texas before, and now I can’t imagine my life without Texas. The way that you guys have treated me – besides draft night, I mean, you guys booed me on draft night – but every day after that you treated me like family, and I truly feel like you’re my family.”
Houston, I wanted you to hear this directly from me… pic.twitter.com/YqT3P6Lb6l
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) February 12, 2021
During his time in Houston, Watt won three Defensive Player of the Year awards (in 2012, 2014 and 2015. He made five Pro Bowls and accrued 101 sacks in his ten years, while missing large parts of the 2016, 2017 and 2019 seasons due to injury.
“I am excited and looking forward to a new opportunity, and I have been working extremely hard, but at the same time it is always tough to move on,” Watt said.