NFL legend JJ Watt ‘meeting with Burnley’ ahead of possible minority investment in club as future Hall of Famer dons Clarets scarf on visit to UK
JJ Watt may be ready to trade one ball for another.
The star defensive end, who announced his retirement on December 27, was reportedly in Burnley on Friday meeting with club officials and also met students at Burnley College, according to AFP. Simon Evans.
Watt, whose wife Kealia is a professional soccer player, was photographed wearing a Clarets scarf during the visit and previously indicated her desire to invest in a soccer club.
He told Front Office Sports last year that he was “definitely” interested in owning a part of a football club, and has been photographed on several occasions watching Burnley games on television at his home.
Evans said he expects Watt to attend Burnley’s home game against Wigan on Saturday.
However, the former Texans and Cardinals star has made no secrets from his chelsea fandomwhich could lead to some discomfort if the Clarets return to the Premier League.
JJ Watt could venture onto the property shortly after hanging up his shoes
Watt is seen posing with a Burnley fan on Friday during his visit to the city.
Vincent Kompany’s team currently leads the Championship by 10 points with only 11 games to play.
Watt would not be the first NFL player to invest in the club.
Former Eagles and Saints safety Malcolm Jenkins bought a stake in Burnley in 2021, and Watt appeared to post photos of the Burnley landscape on Friday.
Kealia is currently a free agent, but has played for the Houston Dash and Chicago Red Stars.
She also made three appearances for the US women’s national team.
Watt’s wife, Kealia, is a professional soccer player who most recently played for the Chicago Red Stars.