The Untold Story Of Dani Watt: 5 Surprising Facts About T.J. Watt's Soccer Star Wife And Their New Baby

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defensive powerhouse, T.J. Watt, is one of the most dominant players in the NFL, but his life off the field is anchored by an equally formidable—and highly accomplished—athlete: his wife, Dani Watt (née Rhodes). The couple’s journey from college sweethearts at the University of Wisconsin to a high-profile NFL marriage has been closely followed by fans, but a series of recent, life-changing events, including the arrival of their first child and a major health scare for T.J., has brought their private world into the spotlight.

As of this current date, December 15, 2025, the biggest news surrounding the couple is the joyous expansion of their family and the emotional support Dani provided during a challenging period for the All-Pro linebacker. This article dives deep into the life and career of Dani Watt, revealing the surprising facts about the woman who is much more than just an NFL wife, and providing the latest updates on their growing family.

Dani Watt (née Rhodes) Biography and Profile

Dani Marie Watt is an American former professional soccer player who gained recognition both for her prolific scoring career and her marriage to NFL Defensive Player of the Year, T.J. Watt. Her dedication to athletics and her own successful career path make her a standout figure among NFL partners.

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• Full Name: Dani Marie Watt (née Rhodes)
• Date of Birth: April 8, 1998
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 27
• Place of Birth: Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA
• Nationality: American
• Education: University of Wisconsin-Madison
• College Sport: Soccer (Forward)
• Professional Career: Former professional soccer player, played for teams including Chicago Stars FC (NWSL)
• Spouse: Trent Jordan "T.J." Watt (Married July 2022)
• Children: Blakely Marie Watt (Daughter, born March 2025)
• Current Residence: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin
• Notable Entities: T.J. Watt, J.J. Watt, Derek Watt, University of Wisconsin Badgers, Pittsburgh Steelers, NWSL, Cabo San Lucas.

From College Sweethearts to Cabo San Lucas Vows: The Watt-Rhodes Love Story

The foundation of T.J. and Dani's relationship is rooted in their shared experience as elite student-athletes at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This common ground created an immediate and strong connection that transcended the typical college romance.

The Wisconsin Connection and Athlete Romance

The couple first met while T.J. was playing football for the Wisconsin Badgers and Dani was a star forward for the women's soccer team. Their relationship began in 2016, and they quickly became one of the university's most recognizable athletic power couples. This shared background means Dani intimately understands the pressures, demands, and commitment required of a professional athlete, a factor that has been crucial to their enduring partnership.

In 2021, T.J. proposed to Dani at a scenic waterfront location, marking the next chapter in their lives. The proposal was a highly publicized event, celebrated by the entire Watt family and their respective fan bases.

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A Luxurious Destination Wedding

T.J. Watt and Dani Rhodes officially tied the knot in a stunning destination wedding in July 2022 in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The lavish ceremony was a star-studded affair, attended by family and friends, including T.J.'s famous brothers, J.J. Watt and Derek Watt, and their wives. The picturesque beachside setting provided a perfect backdrop for the couple to exchange vows, solidifying their commitment after six years of dating.

The wedding was a major social media event, with photos showcasing the beautiful location, the wedding party, and the close-knit Watt family celebrating the union of two athletic dynasties.

The Latest Updates: A New Baby and T.J.'s Health Scare (Current Date: December 2025)

The period leading up to the end of 2025 has been a whirlwind of extreme highs and lows for the Watt family, showcasing Dani’s role as a supportive wife and new mother.

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Welcome, Blakely Marie Watt!

The most exciting and recent news is the arrival of their first child. T.J. and Dani Watt welcomed a baby girl, Blakely Marie Watt, in March 2025. The couple announced the news with a joint post on social media, expressing their joy and calling their daughter "worth the wait." The baby’s middle name, Marie, is also Dani’s middle name, a sweet nod to the new mom.

The birth of Blakely Marie officially makes T.J. a first-time father and adds a new generation to the famed Watt football family, alongside J.J. Watt's children and Derek Watt's children.

Dani’s Emotional Support During T.J.’s Injury

In a challenging moment that tested the family's strength, T.J. Watt suffered a scary injury, later confirmed by his brother J.J. Watt to be a "partially collapsed lung." During this health scare, which required T.J. to undergo surgery, Dani took to social media to share emotional updates with fans, offering reassurance and showcasing her unwavering support for her husband. Her posts provided a rare glimpse into the personal toll the injury took on the family, highlighting her role as a rock during T.J.'s recovery.

This incident, occurring during a critical point in the NFL season, underscored the importance of Dani's presence and her ability to handle the intense public scrutiny that comes with being married to an NFL superstar.

Dani Rhodes: A Football Star in Her Own Right

Long before she became Dani Watt, she built an impressive athletic résumé that established her as a formidable competitor. Her accomplishments on the soccer field are a significant part of her identity.

• Prolific College Career: As a forward for the University of Wisconsin Badgers, Dani was a prolific scorer. She was consistently one of the team's top offensive threats, demonstrating exceptional speed and technical skill.
• Professional Aspirations: After her collegiate career, Dani pursued professional soccer. She was associated with the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), playing for teams such as the Chicago Stars FC. Her career as a professional athlete gives her a unique perspective on T.J.'s career, fostering a relationship built on mutual respect for their respective athletic journeys.
• High School Multi-Sport Athlete: Dani’s athletic talent wasn't limited to soccer. In high school, she was a standout multi-sport athlete in Waukesha, Wisconsin, also excelling in basketball and track and field.

Dani’s journey from a highly decorated college athlete to a professional soccer player, and now a supportive wife and mother, paints the picture of a strong, driven, and successful woman who is a true partner to T.J. Watt, both on and off the field.