Future Hall of Famer J.J. Watt retired from the NFL in 2022, yet he may be making a comeback to the league as a result of a soccer bet he made.
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That is, for those who don't know Watt is a minority owner of the English soccer club Burnley F.C., and the team's goalkeeper, James Trafford, recently initiated a deal with the 5x Pro Bowler.
As Trafford jokingly wrote to Watt on Instagram (December 28, 2024): "Fancy coming out of retirement for the Bengals next season."
Watt replied: "You don't allow a goal the rest of the season and it's a deal."
In view of the chances of this happening, at the time of the agreement there were 26 games left on the schedule.
With this in mind, the unthinkable may be taking place, as Burnley F.C. has now posted their 13th clean sheet in a row, which is mind-boggling considering they have now gone 1,000+ minutes without letting their opponents score.
This means, if Trafford and the team do not concede a goal in the next 13 games, Watt may be in a Bengals uniform next season.
To emphasize the reality of the situation, Watt previously posted on X, that he's starting to get worried.
This is starting to become a bit of a concern… pic.twitter.com/MrOdjRz2En
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) January 18, 2025
Furthermore, after the team's most recent shutout win over Sheffield (4-0; 2/21/25), Watt even showed himself looking for houses in the Cincinnati, Ohio area.
Didn’t think we’d make it this far… pic.twitter.com/vvzXbbolfK
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) February 22, 2025
When speaking on the Pat McAfee show, Watt, 35, expressed that he is actually hoping Burnley gives up a goal, so he doesn't have to suit up again.
Are you gonna be playing for the Cincinnati Bengals..
"I'm starting to get a little concerned..
It's getting a little dicey here" ~ @JJWatt #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/vX3NzdAUAl
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) January 29, 2025
All in all, 22-year-old Trafford has had an impressive season at goalie, as before the deal was even made, the team had only allowed nine goals in 22 games.
As it stands now, Burnley F.C. currently have a 18-14-2 record, ranking them third in the EFL Championship league.
So there is certainly a lot riding on how their season finishes for both Burnley supporters and Bengals fans alike, who will keep an eye out to see if they will be welcoming a 3x Defensive Player of the Year award winner for the upcoming 2025 season.
Related: JJ Watt Announces Retirement, Says He's Played 'Last Ever' Home Game
