TJ Watt with his siblings JJ and Derek (Image Credit: Facebook/ @ JJ Watt)
The Watt brothers are one of the NFL’s most iconic sibling trios, a pure family of football stars. From their small-town beginnings in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, to dominating NFL fields, TJ, JJ, and Derek Watt have made their mark in sports history.
Let’s dive into their lives, careers, and the family dynamic that fuels their success.
TJ Watt – The Youngest
Trent Jordan “TJ” Watt, the youngest Watt brother, was drafted 30th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2017 NFL Draft. Since then, he has cemented himself as one of the NFL’s most dominant defensive players. Known for his relentless quarterback pressures, sacks, and game-changing plays, TJ’s talent has earned him Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors.
Standing at 6’4” and weighing over 250 pounds, TJ combines size and athleticism to terrorize opposing offenses. Despite carrying the weight of his older brother JJ’s legendary status, TJ has blazed his own trail and continues to make a strong case for Hall of Fame recognition.
Justin James “JJ” Watt, the eldest Watt brother, was the first to put the family name in NFL lights. Drafted 11th overall by the Houston Texans in 2011, JJ became a defensive force like no other. Over 10 seasons with the Texans, he earned three Defensive Player of the Year awards—a feat achieved by only three NFL players.
JJ’s career includes 128 games, franchise records in sacks and forced fumbles, and a reputation for altering game plans. Injuries slowed him toward the end of his career, but not before he made an indelible mark on the sport. After a two-year stint with the Arizona Cardinals, JJ retired in 2022. Beyond football, he and his wife, soccer star Kealia Ohai Watt, welcomed their son, Koa James Watt, in October 2022.
Derek Watt
The middle Watt brother, Derek Watt, may not share the spotlight as often as TJ and JJ, but he carved out a solid NFL career on his own. Drafted in the sixth round by the San Diego Chargers in 2016, Derek excelled as a fullback. His blocking and special teams contributions proved crucial for his teams, first with the Chargers and later with the Steelers, where he reunited with TJ in 2020.
Derek played consistently for seven seasons before becoming a free agent in 2023. Off the field, he is a devoted family man who is married to Gabriella Justin. Together, they share two sons, Logan and Brayden, and are expecting a third child in 2024.
Sibling Rivalry Or Family Goals?
The Watt brothers grew up competing in everything from sports to household chores, but their bond has always been unshakable. In 2020, they made history when TJ and Derek’s Steelers faced JJ’s Texans-only the second time three brothers played in the same NFL game.
Despite their competitive spirits, the brothers are each other’s biggest supporters. JJ has openly praised TJ’s rise to greatness, while TJ credits his older brothers for setting the standard. Their shared experiences have kept them grounded and unified, even as they pursue their individual legacies.
Beyond the Field: The Watt Family Dynamic
The Watt brothers credit their parents, John and Carrie Watt, for instilling hard work and discipline in them. Whether supporting their football ambitions or cheering them on at games, the Watt family remained tight-knit.
The brothers have explored other ventures outside of football, such as hosting FOX’s Ultimate Tag in 2019, highlighting their playful sibling dynamic. They’ve also participated in philanthropic efforts, with JJ leading fundraising initiatives like Hurricane Harvey relief, raising over $37 million.
From JJ’s dominance in Houston to TJ’s reign in Pittsburgh and Derek’s quiet consistency, the Watt brothers have redefined what it means to succeed as a family in the NFL. As TJ continues chasing records and Derek enjoys family life, the Watt brothers’ legacy grows stronger. This family’s story isn’t just about football – it’s about support and a shared love for the game.
