The news brought a lot of excitement when JJ Watt took to Twitter on Monday and announced that he would sign with the Cardinals, as Arizona was not considered the favorite to field the former Texans defensive lineman based on prior reporting. It also caused a small problem.
Watt wore the number 99 jersey while playing college football in Wisconsin and held that number in more than 10 seasons in Houston. Unfortunately, for the three-time Defensive Player of the Year, the Cardinal retired No. 99 to honor Marshall Goldberg, a Pro Bowler who played for the then Chicago Cardinals from 1939 to 1948. Soon Goldberg was also included in the team’s Ring of Honor. After his death in 2006.
More: Why did Watt sign with the Cardinals?
It was widely believed that Watt would be forced to choose a different number, but he might still be able to keep his first choice. Goldberg’s daughter, Ellen Goldberg Tullos, Tmz game told She does not have an issue with Watt taking her father’s number.
“[Watt] Tullos said, “I am blessed, and I am sure my father will be more and more pleased to carry it.”
Tullos said his father “always respected other players” and believed Goldberg would have allowed Watt to wear the number 99 proudly.
“He’ll be fine with that,” Tullos said. “It’s just the type of guy you know? I think he would be happy to use his number and be honored that way.”
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported On Monday, Watt and the Cardinals signed a $ 31 million two-year agreement with a $ 23 million guarantee. In 16 matches with Texas last season, Watt totaled 52 tackles, 14 tackles for a loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception, which he returned for a touchdown.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the Cardinals had not yet commented on whether Watt would not be able to keep up with No. 99, but now that Goldberg’s daughter is on board, watching Watt donate in an acquaintance next season There will be no surprise.
Update: Yes, it is happening. Watt said he spoke with Tullos and was “good to go.”
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