J.J. Watt Questions Texas Tech’s Weightlifting Program, Cites Safety Concerns

NFL legend J.J. Watt has voiced his concerns regarding a recent viral video showcasing the weight room at Texas Tech University. The video highlighted a training approach that immediately began with 40-pound dumbbells, prompting a response from the former defensive finish.

Watt expressed skepticism about the program, writing on social media, “Hopefully just performative for social media and not actually true,” adding that such a method “would be wildly absurd, and irresponsible.” He further explained that starting with such heavy weights would be “literally a shortcut” and undermine the principle of “no shortcuts.”

The concern centers around the potential for injury, particularly for athletes who are not accustomed to lifting significant weight. Watt pointed out that jumping directly to 40 pounds could be dangerous, especially for players in positions that don’t require the same level of bulk as others.

Despite his criticism of the training methodology, Watt acknowledged the success of the Texas Tech football program. The Red Raiders achieved a 12-1 record last season, winning the Big 12 championship and securing their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance. This suggests the program’s overall strength and conditioning efforts are effective, even if the weight room approach raises questions.

J.J. Watt’s Background

Justin James Watt, born March 22, 1989, enjoyed a 12-season career in the NFL, primarily with the Houston Texans. He was drafted by the Texans in the first round of the 2011 NFL draft after playing college football for Central Michigan and Wisconsin. Watt is a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2012, 2014, 2015) and was named the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year in 2017.

Watt retired from the NFL in December 2022. He has since transitioned into a role as a football analyst for CBS Sports, beginning with the 2023 season.

The Watt Family Legacy

J.J. Watt is part of a family of NFL players. His brothers, Derek and T.J. Watt, also played professional football. In 2020, all three brothers were on the field together during a game between the Houston Texans and the Pittsburgh Steelers, a rare occurrence in NFL history. Derek Watt retired in March 2024, leaving T.J. Watt as the only brother currently active in the NFL, playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers.