Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt has had a rough season with the club 4-7 and having had two of its key players suspended on Monday. However, the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year found a moment to have some levity with a local beat writer.
As Watt’s Wednesday press conference was winding down, John McClain from the Houston Chronicle, who has covered pro football in the Bayou City since Bum Phillips coached the Oilers, asked Watt if a 10-day break benefited the offense or defense more.
“I don’t know,” Watt said. “I think everybody likes a good nap and sleeping in. It’s a chance to get your body right. So, it probably benefited you, too, John.”
.@JJWatt gets the best of @McClain_on_NFL in Wednesday's presser. That's an ender if there ever was one. pic.twitter.com/k4mVRDCJCA
— The Texans Wire (@TheTexansWire) December 2, 2020
McClain, known for his quick, punchy wit, instantly volleyed.
“Unlike you, I had to work every day,” McClain said.
“Oh, I was going to say you could take a break from bashing us everyday on Twitter and everything,” Watt smirked. “But maybe you didn’t.”
Watt then got up to leave the press conference.
“Dadgumit!” McClain exclaimed, not having a chance to respond.
The fun moment Watt had with the media indicates that the team isn’t letting the adverse situations that have pounded the team all season affect their morale as they gear up for the Colts at 12:00 p.m. CT at NRG Stadium. If Houston can get a big win against a division rival with four games to go, it could be the touchstone they need to end on an optimistic five-game winning streak.