Even though the prognosis is that he will be out up to ten weeks, I'm unconvinced this injury will not have longer term implications for Watt, the Texans, and the division as a whole.

 

Michael Cheever was a second round draft choice for the Jaguars in 1996.  I think he had the ability to be the best C in Jaguars history.  To me, his insertion into the lineup during the Jaguars' playoff run of 1996 was critical to the success Natrone Means had during that run.  During the following offseason, he injured his back lifting weights, like Watt, and he never recovered.

 

There have been other instances of players who suffered back injuries who continued to play, but was never quite the same player.  One that most readily leaps to mind is Charles Haley.  He played all of 1995 with back issues and was not the same player he had been before.

 

Putting aside the absolute destruction he habitually inflicts on our offense, as someone who still values and appreciates defensive football, if indeed this injury does have a prolonged, adverse affect on his effectiveness and career, the Texans and the league will be worse off for it. 

 

I do think if anyone can bounce back from this, Watt can.

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