Watt makes Time Magazine's 'most influential people' list
Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt was named one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people in the world, the publication announced Thursday.
Watt took a leadership role during the flooding in Houston caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. He helped raise more than $37 million for recovery efforts.
"Every few years, a professional athlete touches the heart and soul of a city in a way that has nothing to do with athleticism. Such is the case with Houston Texans star J.J. Watt, who is a star on and off the field," Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner wrote in Watt's top 100 bio.
"Hurricane Harvey was a historic storm that dumped more than 50 inches of rain, damaged more than 300,000 homes, and shattered lives. As Houston's mayor, I led the response and resiliency efforts. But government can't do everything for everyone. J.J. tackled Harvey's destruction the same way he obliterates his opponents on the football field. ...
"Who knows? After I leave office, J.J. Watt could be drafted as the next mayor of Houston."
Watt is one of a half-dozen athletes on this year's list.
He was honored with the NFL's Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in February.