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Multiple reports indicate that J.J. Watt, Arizona Cardinals' star defensive lineman, will need shoulder surgery. He could miss the rest of the 2021 season.
This is a huge blow to the 7-0 Cardinals who had been serious title contenders.
Watt, 32, had 16 tackles (5 for loss), one touchdown, 10 quarterback hits, and a forced turnover in seven games this season.
Watt, when healthy, was one of the most dominant forces within the NFL. He will be honored with a plaque in Canton. Watt is a five-time Pro Bowler and five-time All-NFL selection. He was also a three-time Defensive Players of the Year winner.
His impressive record includes two seasons with at least 20 sacks and five with at least 10 sacks. His 102 sacks are tied for third among active NFL players, and 31st overall in NFL history.
Four of his six previous seasons were cut short by injuries. His 2016 season was ended by a herniated disc. He played just three games. After five contests, a tibial plateau bone fracture ended his 2017 campaign. In 2019, his season was cut in half by a torn left triceps. He did make it to the playoffs in that year.
Arizona will hope that Watt can continue to follow the same path this year. Watt is still trying to win his first Super Bowl title. Getting back on the field for the postseason will be Watt's top priority.
The Cardinals will continue to rely on players such as Chandler Jones (fivesacks) or Markus Golden (6 sacks), in order to generate pressure. Michael Dogbe will likely take over the position of Watt on the defensive line.
