J.J. Watt was a beloved three-time Defensive Player of the Year on the field for the Houston Texans.
Since retiring in 2023, he’s also become one of the NFL’s most iconic players to meet away from the gridiron, even if the future Hall of Famer has to track down someone to ensure their day is made.
While visiting New York City for an event, Watt came across a post on X from a lifelong fan who wanted to ask for a picture, but too shy to tape the shoulder of the Texans’ top player.
“Not proud of it, man enough to say it,” the account posted. “I had breakfast this morning in Greenwich Village NYC and a man sat next to me on his own. Somebody I idolized growing up watching NFL. But out of respect (like a scared little girl) I didn’t even ask for a picture. Not proud of it, man enough to say it. Have a great day in New York @JJWatt.”
Instead of just liking the message or sending a video, Watt went a step further. He messaged the X account user, Douglas Sandstorm, asking where he was so the two could meet. The only request from Watt? Order a Guinness for him to enjoy at O’Hara’s Pub.
Sandstorm did what was asked and within 20 minutes, Watt was there enjoying the beverage. And at the end of the day, Sandstorm got his photo.
“Ladies and Gentlemen. THE GOAT @jjwatt. What a legend, bro! Thank you so much for your time, man. I’ll tell my kids about this story one day,” Standstorm said.
According to The Houston Chronicle, Doug is from Australia and has been in the United States traveling around to watch the World Cup, which ends Sunday in the final match between Spain and Argentina. He was excited to finally meet one of his heroes, but Watt also seemed excited to meet the friend from accross the world.
“Safe travels back home, brother,” Watt wrote with the photo of the meetup on social media. “Great to meet you.”
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans legend J.J. Watt tracks down a fan for a beer and picture in NYC
Reporting by Cole Thompson, Texans Wire / Texans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Cole Thompson, Texans Wire | USA TODAY Network
