If there's one NFL player who truly embodies the essence of an elite pass rusher, it's the legendary J.J. Watt from the Houston Texans. Throughout his impressive 12-year career, particularly during his prime with the Texans, Watt struck fear into the hearts of opposing linemen. His remarkable skills on the field earned him the prestigious title of three-time Defensive Player of the Year, a feat unmatched by any other player in NFL history. Watt also holds the distinction of being the only player to achieve multiple seasons with over 20 sacks.
Since stepping into the media spotlight, Watt has become a familiar face on The Pat McAfee Show. During a recent appearance on the show, Watt shared his enthusiasm for Houston's acquisition of former Minnesota Vikings star pass-rusher, Danielle Hunter.
"I'm a huge Danielle Hunter fan," Watt exclaimed. "I've always believed he's been underrated for far too long. The man's consistency is simply outstanding."
Hunter, a Katy native, showcased his prowess with multiple double-digit sack seasons in his initial five years. However, injuries sidelined him for the entirety of 2020 and restricted his play to just seven games in 2021.
Hunter made a stunning comeback in 2023, achieving a career-best 16.5 sacks, leading the league with 23 tackles for loss, and ranking in the top 15 for quarterback hits with 22. Since his NFL debut in 2015 after being drafted from LSU, Hunter has accumulated an impressive 87.5 sacks, placing him seventh among all players. His proficiency extends beyond pass rushing, as he has consistently excelled in defending the run, recording over 10 tackles behind the line of scrimmage in six out of seven healthy seasons.
After an illustrious eight-year tenure in Minnesota, Hunter decided to explore free agency for the first time in his career. Despite receiving higher offers from other teams, the allure of returning home was too strong to resist. He inked a two-year deal with the Texans, valued at up to $51 million, with $48 million guaranteed.
Watt expressed his excitement about Hunter's addition to the Texans' defense, especially alongside standout rookie Will Anderson in DeMeco Ryans' defensive scheme. The Texans bolstered their defensive line further by signing Denico Autry and trading Maliek Collins to the San Francisco 49ers for a seventh-round pick. These moves aimed to relieve Anderson, who faced double teams on 23% of his pass-rushing snaps, the third-highest rate for an edge rusher, according to ESPN Analytics. Hunter's arrival is expected to alleviate pressure on the young phenom in his second year.
Looking ahead to the 2024 season, the Texans aim to convert more pressures into sacks. Despite ranking in the top five for pressure rate last season, they fell out of the top 10 for sacks, finishing 13th with 46 sacks.
Hunter's playing style aligns perfectly with Ryans' defensive strategy, which emphasizes stunts and twists from the defensive line. His raw strength will not only enhance his own performance but also create opportunities for his teammates to exploit gaps in the opposing offense.
Fans speculated whether Hunter would retain his number 99 jersey upon joining the Texans, as Houston has yet to retire any numbers. However, Hunter put these speculations to rest by announcing his decision to switch to No. 55 out of respect for Watt.
Watt, who concluded his playing career with the Arizona Cardinals following the 2022 season, had his time in Houston commemorated in a special ceremony during a week four matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where his brothers TJ and Derek were playing. Despite his departure from the Texans without a Super Bowl win, Watt is optimistic about the team's future.
"The Texans' recent acquisitions and their activities in the last two offseasons are incredibly impressive," Watt remarked, hinting at the potential he sees in the team's current roster.
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