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J.J. Watt’s unexpected wager
In a surprising twist, NFL legend J.J. Watt has found himself in a unique situation that could see him return to the gridiron. The former defensive end made a bet with Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, and if Trafford continues his impressive streak of clean sheets, Watt might just have to lace up his cleats again.
This wager has not only captured the attention of sports fans but also sparked conversations about the crossover between American football and soccer.
The stakes of the bet
The bet, made back in December, stipulates that if Trafford can go the rest of the EFL Championship season without conceding a goal, Watt will come out of retirement to play for the Cincinnati Bengals.
As of now, Trafford has achieved an astonishing 13 consecutive matches without allowing a goal, making the prospect of Watt’s return more likely. Watt, who is also a part-owner of Burnley, has been vocal about the wager on social media and during interviews, expressing his commitment to follow through if Trafford maintains his form.
What does this mean for Watt?
While the idea of Watt returning to professional football is thrilling, it raises questions about his readiness and the Bengals’ interest in adding him to their roster. Watt has joked about his status as a free agent, noting that he never officially filed retirement papers.
The Bengals, currently in a competitive position, might be intrigued by the idea of adding a player of Watt’s caliber, especially with fans like Trafford and Burnley defender CJ Egan-Riley cheering them on. Watt’s playful banter about reaching out to Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow for a signed jersey adds a light-hearted touch to the situation.
The impact on fans and the sport
This wager has not only created buzz around Watt and Trafford but has also introduced a new audience to Burnley and its players. Watt mentioned that the bet has helped generate interest in the soccer team among Cincinnati fans, showcasing how sports can unite different fan bases.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Trafford and Burnley, with fans eagerly anticipating whether the goalkeeper can maintain his remarkable performance.
Looking ahead
With 13 games left in the Burnley schedule and the team positioned for a potential promotion to the Premier League, the stakes are high. Watt’s nervousness about the bet is palpable, but it also highlights the unpredictability of sports. Whether or not he ends up playing for the Bengals, this wager has already made waves in both the NFL and soccer communities, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected bets can lead to exciting possibilities.
