HOUSTON Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans is making it known he wants a team legend to return to the squad.

Legendary Texan and Cardinal JJ Watt revealed that he would be willing to unretire if the Texans really needed him, and Ryans wants to take him up on that offer.

3

Watt revealed that he previously extended an offer to the team that he would be in shape and ready to play in case they “absolutely need it.”

“I’ve had 12 great years in this league and I’m very thankful to have walked away healthy and playing great,” he said to Audacity Sports.

“I told DeMeco last year, I said, ‘Don’t call unless you absolutely need it, but if you ever do call, I’ll be there.’

“And he knows not to call unless he absolutely needs it. This is the last year I’ll tell him that, because I’m not going to keep training the way I’ve been training, but he knows that if he ever truly does need it, I’ll be there for him.

“I don’t anticipate that happening — they’ve got a very good group.”

Texans general manager Nick Caserio seemed open to the idea of Watt returning to the team, speaking about it on an episode of The Pat McAfee Show.

“I’m not going to speak for him about what he wants to do relative to playing football, I’ll let him disclose that on your show,” he said.

“It’s very early, it’s May, the season doesn’t start until September and then you’ll look at players the end of October, November, case by case.

“Between him and [Tom] Brady, we’ll see who jumps back in first.”

While Watt and Caserio were both careful with their words and noncommittal about the idea, Ryans made it clear that he wants Watt on the team.

“I love to hear JJ say he’s ready to go. I’ve got his number ready in case we need him,” Ryans said.

“JJ looks good, he’s in shape, he’s ready to roll. So I may need to make that call and I’m happy that it’s open from him.

“JJ’s an outstanding player, he’s been an outstanding lawyer for a long time in this league. I’m proud of him for what he’s been able to do in the community.

“I need him now! I need to make that call right now. Anytime JJ Watt’s ready to go, I’m ready to go.”

JJ Watt will be an NFL Hall of Famer on the first ballot once he is eligible after an incredible defensive career.

As a defensive end, Watt compiled 449 tackles and 114.5 sacks with 27 forced fumbles.

He knows that if he ever truly does need it, I’ll be there for him.

JJ Watt on an NFL comeback

He made five Pro Bowls and was named to five All-Pro teams, as well as winning Defensive Player of the Year three times.

Watt is also a recipient of the Walter Payton Man of the Year award, one of the most highly respected honors in sports.

NFL fans were thrilled by the idea of Watt returning for one last year and begged for his comeback on social media.

“YOUR MOVE NOW JJ, WHAT SAY YOUUUU,” one fan said.

“I might actually shed a few tears if we get JJ a superbowl,” another fan said.

“It’s gonna happen,” a third fan said.

“One last ride @JJWatt let’s roll,” a fourth fan said.

3