J.J. Watt posts emotional message to Texans fans after getting released (Video)

J.J. Watt says goodbye to the Houston Texans while expressing excitement for the next chapter in his NFL career.

It’s the end of an era in Houston. No, the Texans didn’t trade Deshaun Watson, at least not yet. Rather the Texans have released J.J. Watt.

Watt, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, asked to be released and the Texans promptly granted his request for the future Hall of Famer. There was an expectation that Watt had played his last game for the organization after a disappointing 2020 season that also led to Watson’s trade request.

On top of a number of questionable decisions made by ownership and the front office, there was a growing sense that Watt was going to be on the way out through a trade. Cutting him outright is a surprise that they couldn’t get an asset in return for the 10-year vet.

J.J. Watt shares emotional video after getting cut by Texans

Shortly after the news was announced, Watt released a heartfelt and emotional video to his social media so the fans could hear the news from his mouth.

Watt thanked the fans for supporting him since draft night, once they stopped the boos, and said he couldn’t ever imagine leaving Texas, the place where he met his wife and lifelong friends. He thanked pretty much everyone in the organization, although not by name. And while Watt was sorry that his time with the Texans had to come to an end, he’s also happy and excited about where his NFL career will take him next.

He should have a long line of suitors who can sign him to a contract without having to give up draft pick compensation to add him to their defense and locker room.