Imagine being a legendary NFL player, stepping away from the gridiron, and then being asked to dive headfirst into the chaotic world of college football coaching. For J.J. Watt, that’s a hard pass. The future Pro Football Hall of Famer has made it crystal clear: coaching college football holds ‘absolutely no appeal’ for him. But why? Isn’t coaching the natural next step for a retired athlete? Not for Watt, and here’s why.
Since hanging up his cleats, Watt has seamlessly transitioned into the CBS Sports announcing booth, a role he seems to be enjoying every Sunday. But during a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, the question arose: would he ever consider coaching at his alma mater, the University of Wisconsin? The Badgers, under head coach Luke Fickell, have struggled with a 14-17 record since 2023, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering if a change is needed. And this is the part most people miss: Watt’s response wasn’t just a polite decline—it was a passionate rejection of the entire coaching lifestyle.
‘The life of a college football coach has absolutely no appeal whatsoever to me,’ Watt stated bluntly. He loves the on-field strategy, the Xs and Os, and helping players reach their potential. But here’s where it gets controversial: Watt can’t stand the off-field chaos. Endless meetings, relentless recruiting, and the pressure to charm 17-year-old prospects with grandiose promises? No thanks. Add in the complexities of NIL deals, booster expectations, and the constant scrutiny from fans—like being grilled about point spreads after a game—and it’s clear why Watt wants no part of it. ‘You could pay me $50 million, and I don’t want to go and do that,’ he declared. ‘I have no interest in it.’
Watt’s three seasons at Wisconsin (2008-2010) were nothing short of stellar. After transferring from Central Michigan, he earned First Team All-Big Ten and All-American honors in 2010, paving the way for his selection as the No. 11 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. Over 12 NFL seasons, primarily with the Houston Texans, he became a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, a five-time First Team All-Pro, and a two-time NFL sacks leader. With credentials like that, it’s no surprise he’s content in the broadcast booth.
Meanwhile, Wisconsin’s coaching situation remains uncertain. Fickell’s $27.5 million buyout (the 25th highest in college football) hasn’t stopped speculation about his future, especially after coaches like Penn State’s James Franklin and Oklahoma State’s Mike Gundy were let go despite stronger records. But here’s the real question: Is the pressure of college coaching worth it, even for someone as accomplished as Watt? Or is he onto something by avoiding the drama altogether?
What do you think? Is Watt making the right call by steering clear of coaching, or is he missing out on a chance to shape the next generation of players? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
