Derek Watt has long been known as one of the NFL’s most reliable fullbacks and a key member of the famous Watt football family. As fans continue to follow the careers of the Watt brothers, many are wondering about Derek’s current status in professional football. Has he stepped away from the game, or is he still grinding it out on Sundays?
TLDR: Derek Watt is not currently playing in the NFL and has not appeared in a regular-season game since his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. While he has not made a massive public retirement announcement like some players, he has effectively stepped away from active NFL competition. After several seasons as a dependable fullback and special teams contributor, his playing days appear to be over. However, his involvement in football and community initiatives continues off the field.
Derek Watt’s NFL Journey
Derek Watt entered the NFL with far less hype than his older brother, J.J. Watt, who became one of the league’s most dominant defensive players. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers, Derek carved out a role as a traditional fullback — a position that has steadily declined in usage across the league.
At the University of Wisconsin, Watt displayed versatility. He blocked, caught passes, and contributed on special teams. His skill set translated well into the NFL, even as many teams moved away from employing a dedicated fullback. While he was not a statistical star, his reliability made him valuable.
Image not found in postmetaDuring his four seasons with the Chargers (2016–2019), Watt became known for:
- Strong run blocking in short-yardage situations
- Special teams contributions
- Locker room leadership
- Versatility as a blocker and occasional receiver
While fullbacks rarely produce eye-popping statistics, Watt’s value came from doing the “dirty work” that often goes unnoticed in box scores.
The Move to Pittsburgh
In 2020, Derek Watt signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, reuniting with his younger brother, T.J. Watt. This move generated excitement, as it marked the first time two Watt brothers would share the same NFL team.
The Steelers primarily used Watt as a blocking back and special teams contributor. Over his three seasons in Pittsburgh (2020–2022), he maintained a low statistical profile but remained consistent in his role.
Image not found in postmetaSome of his notable contributions during his time in Pittsburgh include:
- Key blocks that opened up rushing lanes
- Occasional short-yardage carries and receptions
- Special teams tackles and leadership presence
- Emotional leadership and team-first mentality
Despite these strengths, the NFL’s gradual shift toward pass-heavy offenses and positionless football reduced the demand for traditional fullbacks. By the end of the 2022 season, Watt’s future with the team became uncertain.
Is Derek Watt Still Playing Football?
As of the most recent NFL seasons, Derek Watt is not on an active NFL roster. After his tenure with the Steelers ended, he did not sign with another team, nor did he appear in subsequent regular-season games. While there was no high-profile retirement press conference, his absence from team rosters strongly indicates that his NFL playing career has concluded.
It is not uncommon for players in specialized roles — especially fullbacks and special teams contributors — to step away quietly. Some players wait before formally announcing retirement, while others simply transition into the next phase of their lives.
In Watt’s case, multiple factors likely contributed to this shift:
- The reduced need for traditional fullbacks in modern offenses
- Increased competition from versatile tight ends and hybrid players
- Physical wear and tear from years of blocking and special teams play
- Financial security and career opportunities outside of football
Given these elements, it appears that Derek Watt’s active NFL career has come to an end, even if there hasn’t been an official retirement declaration stamped with fanfare.
The Evolution of the Fullback Position
To fully understand Watt’s situation, it’s important to look at the evolution of the fullback role in the NFL. Decades ago, fullbacks were crucial offensive weapons. Players like Mike Alstott became household names.
However, in today’s game:
- Many teams prefer multiple tight end sets.
- Offenses emphasize speed and spacing.
- Passing schemes dominate playbooks.
This transformation has diminished roster spots for traditional fullbacks. Only a handful of teams consistently utilize one. As a result, even skilled and experienced players like Watt face limited opportunities.
Life After Active Play
Though he may not be playing professionally, Derek Watt remains connected to football in several ways. Many former players transition into:
- Coaching at the high school, college, or professional level
- Broadcasting and analysis
- Business ventures
- Charitable work and foundations
The Watt family has long been active in philanthropy, particularly in Wisconsin and Texas. Derek has been involved in community outreach and charitable initiatives alongside his brothers.
Image not found in postmetaPlayers with Derek’s character, leadership experience, and football IQ often find meaningful post-playing roles — whether directly in football or in leadership positions elsewhere. While he may not be taking snaps on Sundays, his impact likely continues in quieter but equally meaningful ways.
The Watt Family Legacy
One reason fans continue to ask about Derek’s status is the prominence of the Watt name in NFL circles. With J.J. Watt retired after a decorated career and T.J. Watt continuing to stand out as one of the league’s premier defensive players, comparisons and curiosity naturally follow.
Derek’s career may not have featured Defensive Player of the Year awards or Pro Bowl headlines, but it represented something equally admirable: longevity in a difficult role. Making it seven seasons in the NFL is a remarkable accomplishment, especially for a sixth-round pick playing a physically demanding and underappreciated position.
His journey reflects persistence, adaptability, and professionalism — qualities that define many successful NFL careers, even without superstar status.
Could Derek Watt Return?
Technically, unless a player files retirement papers, a comeback is always possible. However, as time passes without a roster spot, the odds of returning decrease. Teams typically prioritize younger, more versatile players when filling special teams and depth roles.
If Watt were to return, it would most likely be:
- On a short-term deal due to injury needs
- As a veteran locker room presence
- In a system that heavily values a traditional fullback
That said, there have been no clear indications that he is actively pursuing such an opportunity.
Final Thoughts
So, is Derek Watt still playing football? Based on his absence from recent NFL rosters and games, the answer appears to be no. While there hasn’t been a dramatic retirement announcement, his professional playing career seems to have quietly concluded.
Yet his story remains significant. Derek Watt exemplifies the type of player every team needs — dependable, hardworking, and selfless. His career may not have commanded national headlines, but it earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When did Derek Watt last play in the NFL?
Derek Watt last appeared in regular-season NFL games during his tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers, which concluded after the 2022 season.
2. Did Derek Watt officially retire?
There has been no widely publicized formal retirement announcement. However, he is not currently on an active NFL roster, and his playing career appears to have ended.
3. What position did Derek Watt play?
Derek Watt played fullback, a position focused primarily on run blocking, short-yardage situations, and special teams contributions.
4. How is Derek Watt related to J.J. and T.J. Watt?
Derek Watt is the middle brother between J.J. Watt and T.J. Watt. All three brothers played in the NFL.
5. Could Derek Watt return to professional football?
While a return is technically possible if he has not officially retired, there are no current signs indicating that he plans to rejoin the NFL.
6. What is Derek Watt doing now?
Although he is no longer playing professional football, he remains involved in community initiatives and has the potential to pursue coaching, media, or business ventures.
In the end, Derek Watt’s NFL chapter appears to be closed, but his impact as a teammate, leader, and member of one of football’s most recognized families continues.