ARIZONA CARDINALS
Arizona Cardinals

Cardinals designate JJ Watt to return, aim for playoff return

The defensive lineman has not played since Week 7

JJ Watt.
JJ Watt.AP

Good news for the Arizona Cardinals and JJ Watt after the team designated him to return from the injured reserve list on Friday, putting him closer to making his return to the gridiron.

This news opens up a possibility of seeing the defensive end's theoretically anticipated reappearance in the playoffs, either for an NFC wild-card game or later if the team is able to advance.

Watt, 32, has not played since Oct. 24 in Week 7 during the Cardinals' win over Houston after he tore his bicep, labrum and rotator cuff.

Watt could be activated at any time in the next three weeks or at the end of the 21-day period and as of this Friday can practice with the team.

Watt's quick recovery

The defensive end was thought to have undergone season-ending shoulder surgery and was seen wearing a sling during Cardinals games, though at the time NFL Insider Ian Rapoport gave other information.

"According to those with knowledge of his rehab, Watt is already testing at a level that would allow him to play. Over the past few days, he had an MRI to confirm the incredible progress he's made," Rapoport said.

Watt's stats with Arizona, which he ed in 2021 after playing 10 seasons with the Houston Texans, are one sack, one forced fumble, 10 quarterback hits and 16 tackles (five for loss) in seven games.

The Cardinals (11-5) can still win the NFC West if they beat the Seattle Seahawks in Week 18 and the Los Angeles Rams lose to the San Francisco 49ers.

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