Derek Watt, formerly of the Los Angeles Chargers, has announced his retirement from the NFL after a seven-season career. The 31-year-old fullback was unable to secure a team for the 2023 season.
Originally drafted by the Chargers in 2016 from Wisconsin as a sixth-round pick, Watt spent four seasons with them from 2016 to 2019.
In his retirement statement, Watt expressed gratitude to his family, coaches, teammates, and the organizations he played for, particularly highlighting the Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played.
He thanked the Spanos Family and the Rooney Family, owners of the Chargers and Steelers respectively, for the opportunities they provided him. The Chargers acknowledged his retirement, emphasizing their support and referring to him as always part of the Charger family.
THANK YOU! pic.twitter.com/7t8pssogZe
— Derek Watt (@DerekWatt34) March 12, 2024
Throughout his career, Watt amassed 29 rushes for 71 yards and two touchdowns, along with 18 receptions for 178 yards and one touchdown.
once a charger, always a charger 💙
congrats on ur retirement, @DerekWatt34! https://t.co/Vwi3WWPemQ
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) March 12, 2024
This marks another retirement from the NFL for the Watt family, following J.J. Watt’s retirement after the 2023 season. However, T.J. Watt, Derek’s brother, continues to play as one of the league’s premier pass rushers for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
