Retired Texans Star J.J. Watt Named to Houston Sports Hall of Fame

Watt is a future lock for the Pro Football Hall of Fame after a standout career with the Texans.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Former Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt, a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, has been inducted into the Houston Sports Hall of Fame. Watt, who retired after the 2022 season, is a Ring of Honor member and finished his career with 114.5 sacks, 194 tackles for losses, and 317 quarterback hits.

Why it matters

Watt's induction into the Houston Sports Hall of Fame recognizes his immense impact on the Texans franchise and the city of Houston during his 10-year career. As a dominant defensive player and philanthropist, Watt left an indelible mark on the community and is widely expected to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in the near future.

The details

Watt was drafted by the Texans in the first round out of Wisconsin in 2011 and went on to become one of the most dominant defensive players of his era. He recorded 101 career sacks for the Texans, the franchise record, along with 172 tackles for losses and 282 quarterback hits. After two seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, Watt retired following the 2022 season at the age of 36.

  • Watt was inducted into the Houston Sports Hall of Fame on Wednesday, March 5, 2026.
  • Watt retired from the NFL after the 2022 season.

The players

J.J. Watt

A former defensive end for the Houston Texans who was a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and is a future lock for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Andre Johnson

A former wide receiver for the Houston Texans who is a member of the Texans' Ring of Honor.

Bob McNair

The late founder and former owner of the Houston Texans.

Janice McNair

The current owner of the Houston Texans and widow of Bob McNair.

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What’s next

Watt will be eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2028.

The takeaway

J.J. Watt's induction into the Houston Sports Hall of Fame solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest players in Texans history and a beloved figure in the Houston community. His dominant on-field performance and philanthropic efforts off the field have cemented his place as a Houston sports icon.