The Watt Brothers Dynasty: T.J.'s New Record, J.J.'s Media Empire, And Derek's Retirement In 2025

The Watt brothers continue to dominate the headlines in the National Football League (NFL) and beyond, solidifying their status as one of the most successful sibling trios in professional sports history. As of December 13, 2025, the biggest news revolves around the youngest brother, T.J. Watt, who recently achieved a monumental career milestone while simultaneously navigating a serious health scare, proving the family’s relentless drive remains at the forefront.

This article provides the most current and fresh look at the lives and careers of J.J., T.J., and Derek Watt, from new NFL records and post-retirement media empires to growing families and significant philanthropic efforts. From their humble beginnings in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, to becoming global sports icons, the Watt dynasty is still writing its most compelling chapters.

The Complete Watt Brothers Biography and Career Timeline

The three brothers—Justin James (J.J.), Derek John, and Trenton Jordan (T.J.)—were raised by John and Carrie Watt in Pewaukee, Wisconsin. Their shared passion for football led all three to the University of Wisconsin-Madison before they each made the leap to the NFL, a feat rarely accomplished by a single family.

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• Justin "J.J." James Watt
  • Born: March 22, 1989 (Waukesha, Wisconsin)
  • College: University of Wisconsin-Madison (Defensive End)
  • NFL Career: Houston Texans (2011–2020), Arizona Cardinals (2021–2022)
  • Key Achievements: 5x Pro Bowl, 5x First-team All-Pro, 3x NFL Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY), Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2017).
  • Current Status (2025): Retired, NFL Studio Analyst for CBS Sports, Analyst on the Pat McAfee Show, Co-owner of Burnley Football Club (EFL Championship).
• Derek John Watt
  • Born: November 7, 1992 (Waukesha, Wisconsin)
  • College: University of Wisconsin-Madison (Fullback)
  • NFL Career: San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers (2016–2019), Pittsburgh Steelers (2020–2022)
  • Key Achievements: Special Teams standout, known for blocking and versatility.
  • Current Status (2025): Announced retirement in March 2024.
• Trenton "T.J." Jordan Watt
  • Born: July 11, 1994 (Waukesha, Wisconsin)
  • College: University of Wisconsin-Madison (Outside Linebacker)
  • NFL Career: Pittsburgh Steelers (2017–Present)
  • Key Achievements: 5x Pro Bowl, 3x First-team All-Pro, NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2021), NFL career sacks leader in the Watt family.
  • Current Status (2025): Active Pittsburgh Steelers Linebacker, signed to a major contract extension.

T.J. Watt’s Record-Breaking 2025 Season and Health Scare

The 2025 NFL season has been a rollercoaster for the youngest Watt brother, T.J. Watt, who is currently the cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Steelers defense. His on-field dominance reached a new peak when he officially surpassed his older brother J.J. to become the Watt family’s all-time NFL career sacks leader. This achievement is a testament to his consistent elite performance and puts him in a rare echelon of defensive players.

The record-breaking moment was quickly followed by a serious health concern that shocked the sports world. T.J. Watt was recently hospitalized after experiencing discomfort in his lung. His older brother, J.J. Watt, provided a critical update on social media, confirming that T.J. had undergone successful surgery to stabilize and repair a partially collapsed lung. The injury was reportedly suffered after a routine dry needling treatment session, a detail that drew significant attention to the risks of athletic recovery methods.

Despite the setback, the Steelers organization and the entire Watt family remain optimistic about his return. T.J. Watt is signed to a massive contract extension, securing his future with the team and confirming his status as one of the league's most valuable defensive assets. His recovery is the most closely watched story of the current NFL season.

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J.J. Watt's Post-NFL Empire: Broadcasting, Ownership, and Family Life

Since officially retiring from the Arizona Cardinals in 2022, J.J. Watt has transitioned from the gridiron to a multifaceted career that spans sports broadcasting, business ownership, and family life. His post-playing career is proving to be as impactful as his time with the Houston Texans where he earned three Defensive Player of the Year awards.

In the 2025 season, J.J. has taken on a significant new role with CBS Sports. After a successful initial stint as a studio analyst on *The NFL Today*, he has been elevated to the network's number two game team, working alongside veteran play-by-play announcer Ian Eagle. This move solidifies his position as one of the most prominent voices in NFL commentary.

Beyond the booth, Watt has channeled his competitive energy into sports ownership. He and his wife, former professional soccer star Kealia Ohai Watt, made headlines by becoming minority investors in Burnley Football Club, an English soccer club. This venture allows Watt to chase the "adrenaline void" left by his playing days and expand his business portfolio into the global sports market.

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The Watt family is also growing. J.J. and Kealia, who married in 2020, welcomed their first son, Niko Benjamin, in October 2022. In a joyous announcement, the couple recently shared that they are expecting their second child, adding another member to the rapidly expanding Watt sports dynasty.

The Watt Legacy: Philanthropy and Future Impact

The Watt brothers’ influence extends far beyond their impressive NFL career statistics and accolades. Philanthropy is a central pillar of the family's legacy, primarily driven by the J.J. Watt Foundation. This non-profit organization focuses on providing funding for middle school athletic programs.

The J.J. Watt Foundation has been incredibly successful, providing over $6.9 million in funding to support 6th–8th grade after-school athletic programs and organizations. The money is used to purchase uniforms and equipment, ensuring that young athletes have the resources they need to participate. This commitment to youth sports reflects the values instilled in them by their parents, John and Carrie Watt.

While Derek Watt, the family's dedicated fullback and special teams ace, announced his retirement in March 2024, his contributions to the Chargers and Steelers were invaluable. His decision marks a quiet transition to post-playing life, allowing him to focus on family and future endeavors after a successful career that saw all three brothers share the field in the NFL.

The Watt brothers have set a new standard for sibling success in professional football. With T.J. now leading the family in career sacks and J.J. building a media and business empire, the Watt name will continue to be synonymous with excellence, dedication, and impactful philanthropy for generations to come. The current news, from T.J.'s health recovery to J.J.'s new broadcasting role, proves that even in retirement, the Watt family remains one of the most compelling and relevant stories in sports.