The Unbreakable Bond: 7 Shocking Updates On The Watt Brothers' Careers And Massive Net Worth In 2025

The Watt brothers—Justin James "J.J." Watt, Derek John Watt, and Trent Jordan "T.J." Watt—have cemented their legacy as one of the most dominant sibling trios in NFL history. As of December 2025, their individual careers are at pivotal, contrasting points: one is a media mogul, one is a record-breaking defensive titan, and one has gracefully stepped into retirement. This article dives into the most current, up-to-the-minute details on their careers, their massive financial milestones, and the family bond that remains the foundation of their success.

The latest news is dominated by T.J. Watt's recent health scare and J.J.'s new high-profile media gig, proving that even in retirement, the Watt name continues to make headlines across the sports world. Their story, originating from the small town of Pewaukee, Wisconsin, remains a fascinating study in athletic excellence and familial support.

The Complete Biography and Professional Profile of the Watt Brothers

The Watt brothers share a common background rooted in the hard work ethic instilled by their parents, John Watt, a former firefighter, and Connie Watt, a vice president of an engineering firm. All three played college football for the University of Wisconsin, forging a path that would lead them to professional football.

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• J.J. Watt (Justin James Watt)
  • Born: March 22, 1989 (Pewaukee, Wisconsin)
  • Primary Position: Defensive End (DE)
  • College: University of Wisconsin (transferred from Central Michigan)
  • NFL Teams: Houston Texans (2011–2020), Arizona Cardinals (2021–2022)
  • Career Highlights: 5x Pro Bowl, 5x First-team All-Pro, 3x NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Walter Payton Man of the Year (2017).
  • Current Status (2025): Retired NFL Analyst for CBS Sports, part-owner of Burnley Football Club.
• Derek Watt (Derek John Watt)
  • Born: November 7, 1992 (Pewaukee, Wisconsin)
  • Primary Position: Fullback (FB)
  • College: University of Wisconsin
  • NFL Teams: San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers (2016–2019), Pittsburgh Steelers (2020–2022)
  • Career Highlights: Known for his elite blocking and special teams play; played alongside T.J. on the Steelers.
  • Current Status (2025): Announced retirement in March 2024.
• T.J. Watt (Trent Jordan Watt)
  • Born: October 11, 1994 (Pewaukee, Wisconsin)
  • Primary Position: Outside Linebacker (OLB)
  • College: University of Wisconsin
  • NFL Team: Pittsburgh Steelers (2017–Present)
  • Career Highlights: 7x Pro Bowl, 3x First-team All-Pro, NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2021).
  • Current Status (2025): Active player, signed a record-breaking contract extension in July 2025.

The 2025 Career Crossroads: From Record Contracts to New Beginnings

The year 2025 marks a dramatic divergence in the professional paths of the three brothers, with each one embarking on a distinct new chapter.

T.J. Watt: The Highest-Paid Defensive Force and Recent Health Scare

T.J. Watt, the youngest brother, is currently the family's most active and dominant force in the NFL. In July 2025, he made headlines by signing a massive three-year, $123 million contract extension with the Pittsburgh Steelers. This groundbreaking deal, at the time, made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, underscoring his value as an elite Outside Linebacker (OLB).

His 2025 season has been statistically impressive, including surpassing his older brother J.J. Watt on the league's career sack list, a milestone that J.J. publicly celebrated. However, the season took a concerning turn in December 2025 when T.J. was hospitalized after experiencing lung discomfort at the team’s practice facility. While the exact severity was initially unclear, the incident highlighted the physical toll of his relentless playing style, even as he continues to be selected for the Pro Bowl.

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J.J. Watt: From Defensive End Legend to CBS Broadcast Analyst

J.J. Watt, the eldest and most decorated of the trio, has smoothly transitioned into his post-playing career. After retiring from the Arizona Cardinals, J.J. landed a major new role in the media. He is expected to join CBS Sports' No. 2 NFL broadcasting team as an analyst for the 2025 season, working alongside veteran announcer Ian Eagle. This move keeps the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year firmly in the spotlight, allowing him to share his deep football knowledge and insights with a national audience.

Beyond the broadcast booth, J.J. and his wife, former professional soccer player Kealia Ohai Watt, have been heavily involved in investment success, including their minority ownership stake in the English Football League's Burnley Football Club. J.J. has also continued his extensive philanthropic endeavors through the J.J. Watt Foundation, which has provided millions in funding for after-school athletic programs for children.

Derek Watt: The Fullback's Quiet Retirement

Derek Watt, the middle brother and a celebrated Fullback (FB) for his blocking and special teams contributions, announced his retirement in March 2024 via an Instagram post. Derek spent seven seasons in the NFL, including time with the Los Angeles Chargers and the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played alongside T.J. His retirement marked the end of an era for the two brothers sharing a locker room. While his retirement was quieter than his siblings' high-profile news, he remains a respected figure for his selfless role on the field and his integral part in the famous Watt family dynamic.

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The Watt Family Legacy: Charity, Contracts, and Core Values

The narrative of the Watt brothers is about more than just football; it's about the values instilled by their Wisconsin upbringing. The family's commitment to charity is a defining trait. J.J.'s legendary fundraising efforts following Hurricane Harvey, which raised over $30 million for relief efforts, earned him the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year award.

This commitment to giving back extends to all three brothers, who frequently participate in joint philanthropic events to fight hunger and support youth athletics.

The financial success of the family is staggering. T.J.'s $123 million extension solidified his place among the highest-earning defensive players in the league, a feat his older brother J.J. celebrated, despite T.J. having surpassed his own career earnings. The brotherly rivalry, always good-natured, now includes a financial bragging-rights component that only strengthens their bond. J.J.'s reaction to T.J.'s massive contract was a mix of pride and playful jealousy, underscoring the tight-knit nature of the family.

As J.J. transitions to a media personality and investor, Derek enjoys retirement, and T.J. continues his quest for a Super Bowl with the Steelers, the Watt brothers' collective impact on the NFL and the world of sports remains unparalleled. Their story is a powerful testament to the results of hard work, dedication, and the strength of a family that excels together.