J.J. Watt's Touching Homecoming with Son Koa
A Father-Son Moment at NRG Stadium
NFL legend J.J. Watt created unforgettable memories at NRG Stadium before calling Sunday's Texans-Jaguars game. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year shared an emotional on-field moment with his 3-year-old son Koa, just hours before he would analyze the action from CBS Sports' broadcast booth.
"This was such a cool morning for me to have my wife, Kealia, and my son, Koa, out on the field. Obviously, so many memories in this building, so many great throwbacks, and to see him run into that end zone, the same one I've run into before, just unbelievable feeling this morning."

A Legacy in Crimson
Watt's connection to Houston runs deep. The former defensive end spent 10 seasons with the Texans after being selected 11th overall in the 2011 NFL Draft. During his tenure, he dominated the league with 114.5 sacks, five First-team All-Pro selections, and three Defensive Player of the Year awards. His impact transformed the franchise and became part of Houston sports lore.
After requesting his release following the 2020 season, Watt signed with the Arizona Cardinals. Despite shoulder surgery in 2021 and an atrial fibrillation scare in 2022, he continued his remarkable career before retiring in 2023. His final stats include 448 solo tackles across 151 regular-season games.

New Chapter in Broadcasting
Now in his second season with CBS Sports, Watt has seamlessly transitioned from player to analyst. After starting as an in-studio host, he joined Ian Eagle in the booth this season, bringing his signature intensity and football IQ to viewers. His presence added extra significance to Sunday's game at his former home stadium.
The timing proved particularly poignant as Watt witnessed the Texans complete a stunning 19-point comeback victory - the second-largest in franchise history. Many fans jokingly credited "Koa the Conqueror" for the good omen after the little Watt's earlier touchdown celebration.
The Next Generation
As Koa sprinted into the same end zone his father once conquered, social media erupted with speculation about the Watt family legacy. J.J. joins his uncles T.J. and Derek as NFL players, fueling dreams that young Koa might eventually follow their path. The father- moment has already gone viral with NFL on CBS sharing the clip that captured the touching exchange.
"We're obviously assuming a whole lot by suggesting that Koa Watt will eventually become the fourth member of the Watt family to play in the NFL," one sports publication noted, "but you better believe that if the little fella ends up following in the footsteps of the previous generation of men in this football family, this very clip will make the rounds at some point in time."
For now, Watt is cherishing these father-son moments while building a new broadcasting career. His return to NRG Stadium as both analyst and proud father created a perfect blend of past and future, reminding us why his impact extends far beyond the football field.
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Emily Rodriguez
Sports journalist covering international football, Olympics, and athlete profiles. Award-winning sports writer.