Derek Watt retires from NFL after seven seasons

Fullback Derek Watt, one of three Watt brothers to play in the NFL, has announced his retirement.

"It is with great honor and gratitude that I officially announce my retirement and the end to my career... A career that ended up being about so much more than just the game that I love. The 7 years with 2 great organizations, 110 career games, and lifelong friendships and memories that I've been fortunate enough to make have been nothing short of amazing," he wrote in a statement posted to X.

Watt didn't play in the NFL last season, but from 2020 to '22 he played for the Pittsburgh Steelers with his brother T.J. Watt, Pittsburgh's star pass-rusher. His other brother, J.J. Watt, who starred as a pass-rusher for the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals, retired in 2022.

"From playing in the backyard, to sharing a field in the NFL, this journey together has been absolutely incredible," Derek Watt said in his statement. "They say if you want to be great, then you should surround yourself with greatness... You both have pushed me to be the best that I could be and it's been so special to see all the hard work that we put in and sacrifices that we made pay off!"

J.J. Watt posted on X, "Incredible career. Incredible man. Incredible brother. Couldn't possible be more proud. Love you @DerekWatt34."

T.J. Watt posted on his Instagram story: "Very proud day!!!!"

Derek Watt, 31, was picked in the sixth round of the 2016 draft by the Chargers and played four seasons with the franchise before signing with the Steelers for his final three seasons.

He was respected for his run blocking and as a core special teams player, but he also scored three touchdowns in his career, with two coming in his final NFL season.