The 30 best NFL players set to become free agents in 2023
By Ryan Heckman
30 best NFL free agents in 2023: J.J. Watt, DE
UPDATE: Since publication, Watt has announced he plans to retire.
He has played in single-digit games for four of his seasons in the NFL, and injuries have been a main storyline for the former Wisconsin Badger, but J.J. Watt still has “it.” With over 111 career sacks and over 300 quarterback hits in his career, the future Hall of Fame pass rusher has already put together quite the career.
After two years with the Arizona Cardinals, he will likely be looking for a new team in the spring as Kliff Kingsbury’s guys try and figure out how to right the ship going forward.
It might feel like it’s been a while since we’ve seen a dominant season out of Watt, but he is currently in the midst of what will be his sixth season in double-digit sacks. Now, he hasn’t topped 10 since he did so back in 2018 with Houston when he also earned his fifth All-Pro honors.
But, in a season where the Cardinals have been a mess and their defense isn’t nearly as good as it was a few years back, Watt is enjoying a fantastic campaign. He’ll be 34 next March, but for any team needing one more pass rusher who is as creative and savvy as anyone in the league, Watt will be a strong signing.