‘How do you want them to play?’: Texans legend JJ Watt criticizes NFL roughing the passer calls

By Ryan K Boman | The Sporting News | Nov 20, 2025

Future Hall of Famer JJ Watt appeared for his weekly chat with the crew on the Pat McAfee Show on Wednesday, and he had defense on his mind. As one of the greatest pass rushers ever, he’s been witnessing a phenomenon that he says is “ruining the NFL”.

Watt brought up the roughing the passer rule in the league, saying it’s gone unchecked and unexplained, befuddling the former three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He has not only posted about the topic multiple times recently, but he was vocal about the ‘gray area’ used when enforcing these personal fouls.

I’m frustrated with it,” Watt stated. “I’ve been frustrated with it for a while, and I remain frustrated with it. I try to call it out in the games that we have, when I see it.”

Watt then brought up two plays from the Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Los Angeles Chargers, where one penalty was called, and the after-effect …Read More HERE