JJ Watt reveals "concerning" bet that could see NFL Hall of Famer suit up for Bengals

A playful social media exchange between NFL legend JJ Watt and Burnley F.C. goalkeeper James Trafford has taken an unexpected turn. The bet, made on December 28, could theoretically pull Watt out of retirement and into a Bengals uniform.

JJ Watt shared screenshots of their conversation on Twitter, where Trafford asked the former defensive star to join Cincinnati. Watt's response set up an ambitious challenge;

"You don't allow a goal the rest of the season and it's a deal."

The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year likely didn't expect Trafford to take the challenge so seriously. Since their exchange, the Burnley goalkeeper hasn't conceded a single goal in five matches.

"This is starting to become a bit of a concern..." Watt posted on Twitter on January 18, 2025, after Trafford's latest heroics. The goalkeeper saved two penalty kicks in the closing minutes against Sunderland, preserving a nil-nil draw.

Trafford's clean sheet streak stretches back to December 15, when he last conceded against Watford. He's made 10 saves during this impressive run, helping Burnley's push for Premier League promotion.

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Trafford's heroics put pressure on JJ Watt's promise

NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers at Houston Texans - Source: Imagn

The stakes keep rising as Trafford continues his remarkable form. Burnley has allowed just nine goals in 27 Championship games this season. This extraordinary defensive record is making Watt's joke promise feel more real by the day.

Watt's NFL credentials make this story even more intriguing. He recorded 101 tackles in 10 seasons with Houston before finishing his career with the Arizona Cardinals in 2022. His achievements include five first-team All-Pro selections.

The former Houston Texans icon became a part-owner of Burnley after retiring, making this transatlantic connection even more special. While speculation about Watt's return to football has surfaced before, this lighthearted bet adds a new twist.

Trafford faces a monumental task to hold up his end of the bargain. Burnley's season continues until May 3, meaning he would need to maintain his clean sheet for nearly four more months to cash in on JJ Watt's promise.

For now, Bengals fans can dream about pairing JJ Watt with Trey Hendrickson. Burnley supporters celebrate their goalkeeper's determination to make the impossible possible.