15 MINUTES AGO: DeMeco Ryans Pays Heartfelt Tribute

HOUSTON, TX – In an emotional and unforgettable moment that sent waves through the Houston Texans community, Head Coach DeMeco Ryans delivered a deeply moving tribute to franchise legend J.J. Watt, honoring a career defined by excellence, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the city of Houston.

Speaking from the podium at NRG Stadium during the team’s “Legends Week” celebration, Ryans held back tears as he reflected on Watt’s impact—not just as a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, but as a man who became the face of the franchise and a symbol of hope during some of the city’s darkest hours.

“J.J. didn’t just play for this team,” Ryans said. “He became the team. His heart, his fire, his relentless drive—that’s what we want every Houston Texan to embody. He gave everything, every day.”

Watt, who played for the Texans from 2011 to 2020, was selected 11th overall in the 2011 NFL Draft. From the moment he stepped onto the field, he changed the culture of the organization. Over his decade-long tenure in Houston, Watt tallied 101 career sacks, multiple All-Pro honors, and countless moments of brilliance that made him a household name across the NFL.

But Ryans, himself a former Texans linebacker and now the team’s head coach, focused less on the numbers and more on Watt’s legacy off the field.

“When the city flooded during Hurricane Harvey, J.J. was there—not as a football player, but as a leader, as a brother to this community,” Ryans said, referencing Watt’s fundraising efforts that raised over $41 million for recovery efforts in 2017. “That’s the kind of greatness that lives beyond football.”

Today’s tribute came with added emotion as Watt recently announced that he will be inducted into the Texans’ Ring of Honor this upcoming season, becoming only the third player in franchise history to receive the recognition.

Watt, attending the ceremony with his family, appeared visibly moved as Ryans spoke. Cameras captured Watt placing a hand over his heart and nodding slowly as his former teammate praised not only his talent, but his character.

“What I remember most,” Ryans continued, “was his leadership in the locker room. Young guys looked up to him. Veterans respected him. He pushed everyone to be better, to care more, to play harder.”

The tribute drew standing ovations from Texans players, coaches, and staff. Several current stars, including quarterback C.J. Stroud and defensive end Will Anderson Jr., shared heartfelt messages on social media.

“J.J. is the standard,” Anderson wrote on X. “We’re all just trying to live up to the legacy he built.”

Watt later addressed the crowd, delivering a speech filled with gratitude and humility.

“Houston made me who I am,” Watt said. “This city, this organization—they gave me a platform, a purpose, and a family. I’ll always be a Texan.”

He thanked Ryans personally, calling him “a true leader who understands what it means to bleed for this team,” and ended his remarks by encouraging the next generation to embrace the responsibility of the jersey.

“When you wear this logo,” Watt said, “you represent something bigger than yourself. Never forget that.”

The Texans also unveiled plans to build a commemorative statue of Watt outside NRG Stadium, cementing his place not only in team history but in the very landscape of Houston.

As DeMeco Ryans closed the ceremony, he left the audience with one final thought.

“There will be other great players,” he said. “But there will never be another J.J. Watt.”

The legacy of No. 99 will forever echo in Houston—not just in highlight reels, but in hearts, in homes, and in the spirit of the Texans for generations to come.