Top 30 athletes under 30

3. J.J. Watt, Houston Texans – 26 years old

The Jacksonville Jaguars were really kicking themselves for passing on Russell Wilson to take a punter. But they must have been crying themselves to sleep at night knowing they drafted quarterback Blaine Gabbert No. 10 overall — one pick before the Houston Texans selected J.J. Watt.

That’s the kind of pain that lasts for a lifetime, folks.

Now Watt’s story is interesting. He was only a two-star prospect out of high school and was recruited to Central Michigan to play tight end. He ended up transferring to Wisconsin and switching to the defensive line while with the Badgers, and it was a very, very smart move.

His 21 tackles for loss and seven sacks during his junior season helped him get a first-round grade, and the Texans have more than enjoyed their return on investment.

After just 5.5. sacks with 48 tackles in his rookie year, Watt went off the charts with 20.5 sacks in his second year. He forced four fumbles and had 69 tackles.

Watt had a “measly” 10.5 sacks in 2013 before going off for another 20.5 sacks last season. He won the AP Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2012 and 2014. And last season he made his case for the MVP award by catching three touchdowns as well — proving he really did used to play tight end.

Maybe he thought no one believed him.

With as good as Luke Kuechly, Patrick Peterson and Clay Matthews are, Watt is the unheralded best defensive player in the NFL right now. If he continues to catch touchdowns his case for best overall player will only be solidified.

Next: No. 2 Andrew Luck