Defensive end J.J. Watt wants to remain a Texan, and he wants to get paid.
Speaking to reporters after Tuesday's practice with the Broncos, Watt candidly answered questions about a possible contract extension, according to Houston Chronicle reporter John McClain.
And if his stats weren't enough negotiation points for the 2012 Defensive Player of the Year, Watt mentioned his fellow 2011 NFL Draft class.
"When you look around the league and you see a couple guys from the 2011 draft class get contracts, it's just nice to see appreciation being shown," he told the Chronicle. "With the new (collective bargaining agreement), I think one of the goals was to make guys earn their pay. No more big paydays up front. ... When a team gives a contract after the third year, they're saying, 'We think you've earned this.' And so, I don't know if (the Texans) feel that way or not. But I sure hope I've put in all the work and I've put in everything I can do to hopefully earn it."
Members of that draft class that received big paydays include Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson, Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton, and 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick.
According to Bleacher Report, Watt is set to make a base salary of $1.9 million this year and nearly $7 million for the 2015 season. He would become a free agent in 2016.
So far, Watt hasn't been involved in any negotiations, but said he would step in if neccesary.
And unlike teammate Andre Johnson, Watt never threatened to not show up for his team.
"I always try to put on the best face I can for this organization," he said. "And I'll always try and be the best ambassador I can be for the Houston Texans."
In the end, he hopes to remain in Houston.
"The city's so great and the way that they've treated myself and my family, I couldn't ask for a better place to play," he said. "So I sure as heck hope that we can make something happen."
I'm sure the Texans fans agree.
(H/T Bleacher Report)
