J.J. Watt makes emotional return in Houston

After raising more than $29 million toward relief of Hurricane Harvey, Houston Texans star J.J. Watt made an emotional entrance from the tunnel.

Houston has been going through a horrific ordeal throughout the last few weeks. Hurricane Harvey, one of the most powerful storms of our time, has ravaged the city, but not break it. One of the most evident symbols of this resolve is J.J. Watt, defensive end of the Houston Texans.

Watt began a campaign during the storm, hoping to raise $200,000 for relief. Instead, folks from around the world, including the Tennessee Titans ownership, has given more than $29 million to help aid in recovery.

On Sunday, the Texans opened their season at home in NRG Stadium against the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Watt emerged alone from the tunnel before the game began, to a thunderous ovation.

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Watt is a great player, and will one day end up in the Hall of Fame. His legacy was already secure, as one of the great defensive ends the sport has ever seen. Now, his legacy becomes so much more than football. It becomes about his spirit, one that won’t soon be forgotten by Houston and the rest of a country looking for heroes.

The Texans are expected to compete for another AFC South title, especially with Watt fully recovered from back surgery. The All-Pro was limited to two games last year due to a back problem, but after a full offseason tor gain strength, he looks fine.