JJ Watt's Shirtless Photo Sparks Social Media Frenzy: Here's What Happened

NFL icon JJ Watt may have retired from the gridiron, but his dedication to fitness remains unwavering. Earlier this year, Watt set social media abuzz with a shirtless photo showcasing his chiseled physique, leaving fans in awe of his muscular build.

The image, revealing Watt's sculpted quads and impressive upper body, quickly garnered attention online, with comments ranging from admiration to playful warnings for spouses. Watt, 35, acknowledged the buzz surrounding the photo, humorously attributing it to his confidence in maintaining his physical prowess post-retirement.

In an exclusive chat with Us Weekly, Watt quipped, "You know, some days you’re feeling good and the lighting is good. Some days you’re proud. You’re retired and you’re like, ‘I still got it.’"

After a stellar 12-year career in the NFL with the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals, Watt transitioned into a new chapter of his life. While the photo was initially meant as a light-hearted display of his fitness journey, the overwhelming response caught him off guard.

"It turned into something much bigger than I anticipated it would," Watt shared. "But that’s literally the only reason I’m working out now. I just want to look good and feel good because nobody cares anymore if I squat or bench 405 pounds. It doesn’t matter. I just want to look good now."

Aside from his fitness regimen, Watt credits quality family time for keeping him grounded post-retirement. With his son Koa turning two soon, Watt cherishes the moments spent with his family, relishing the freedom to engage fully in fatherhood.

"The most rewarding thing is family time," Watt expressed, highlighting the joy of being present for his son's milestones. "Having that mental and physical stress off me from playing, I can just truly sit back and enjoy my time with Koa. We just have so much fun with him every single day."

Recently, Watt enjoyed a fun-filled competition with his brothers TJ Watt, a linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Derek Watt, a former NFL fullback. The trio participated in Old El Paso's "Watt Can Taco" challenge, showcasing their culinary skills in a light-hearted showdown.

"Of course, we turn everything into a competition so it got very heated very quickly on that set," Watt revealed. "They both very much wanted to win. I was trying to play it as straight and honest as I could. It was a great competition. We made it a lot of fun."

For those eager to join the Old El Paso excitement, Watt's taco challenge offers a glimpse into his post-NFL adventures. As Watt navigates this new phase of his life, balancing fitness, family, and fun, his viral photo serves as a reminder of his enduring charisma and dedication to staying in top form.