Watt: Demanding new contract would be 'wrong move'

After another injury-plagued season, J.J. Watt is determined to prove his worth to the Houston Texans rather than pushing for a new contract.

The three-time Defensive Player of the Year has two seasons left on the six-year, $100-million contract he signed in 2014.

"No, I don't think that's necessary," the pass-rusher said Wednesday in regard to demanding a new contract, according to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle. "I'm not going to sit here and demand anything. If I asked for an extension or money right now, I think that would be the wrong move. I'm going out there to make sure these people know that I'm worth it."

Watt's deal has no guaranteed money remaining. Moreover, his 2020 and 2021 base salaries of $15.5 million and $17.5 million, respectively, lag behind the NFL's highest-paid defensive players.

After playing in just eight games from 2016-17, the 31-year-old regained his dominant form in 2018, racking up 16 sacks and seven forced fumbles.

But injuries took down Watt again last season. He missed eight regular-season games with a torn pectoral before returning for the playoffs.

With a new deal likely linked to his ability to stay on the field, Watt is focused on keeping Houston at the top of the AFC South.

"My goal for every season is the same - to do whatever is possible to help the team win. No. 1, that means staying healthy and playing at my peak physical level."

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