Houston hero and Texans Ring of Honor inductee J.J. Watt is set to make a return to NRG Stadium. His return is not as a dominant pass-rusher, but as a CBS broadcast analyst for the Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars game.

The game, which is currently scheduled Sunday, November 9, according to early scheduling reports, will see the former Defensive Player of the Year take his place in the booth as part of the CBS Sports broadcast team.

A New Chapter in Houston

Watt, who cemented his legacy in Houston with a stellar career that included three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, has successfully transitioned to broadcasting following his retirement in 2022. After beginning his tenure with CBS as a studio analyst, he has moved into the game booth as the network's number two color commentator, partnering with veteran play-by-play announcer Ian Eagle and sideline reporter Evan Washburn.

While Watt has previously been assigned to call a Texans game on the road (notably the Texans vs. Ravens contest earlier in the 2025 season), this will mark a particularly significant moment: his first time calling a game from the stadium where he spent the prime of his career.

Insight from a Legend

The move to the broadcast booth allows fans a unique perspective on the game they love. Watt's analysis is expected to be rich with the on-field insight only a future Hall of Famer can provide, especially a player who knows the atmosphere, the franchise, and the AFC South rivalry intimately.

"There is nothing better than the energy and excitement of being in the stadium on game day in the NFL," Watt stated upon taking the game analyst role. "I couldn't pass up the opportunity to return to that atmosphere each week, working with one of the best in Ian."

Fans should be eager to hear his perspective on the current generation of Texans football as they battle their divisional rival, the Jacksonville Jaguars, in a crucial mid-season matchup. Considering the Texans suffered an 18-15 loss to the Denver Broncos, sealed by Will Lutz's late 23-yard field goal after C.J. Stroud left the game with a concussion in the second quarter. Hearing Watt's take on the Texans record and game-play of the previous games would add some perspective to the team's performance.

In contrast, the Jacksonville Jaguars edged out the Las Vegas Raiders with a 30-29 overtime victory. Although Trevor Lawrence struggled offensively, his 1-yard touchdown run late in overtime secured the win, thwarting Geno Smith's subsequent failed two-point conversion attempt. 

More Than a Game

For the Houston faithful, having J.J. Watt back at NRG, even in a different capacity, is an event. His Ring of Honor induction in 2023 celebrated his unparalleled impact on the team and the city. His presence for the broadcast will undoubtedly add an extra layer of excitement to fans on top of this competitive divisional clash, bridging the past and present of the Houston Texans franchise for viewers at NRG and at home.