J.J. Watt, brother of Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt and Cardinals defensive end, suffered a heart issue earlier this week, but plans to play on Sunday, he said on Twitter.
I was just told somebody leaked some personal information about me and it’s going to be reported on today.
I went into A-Fib on Wednesday, had my heart shocked back into rhythm on Thursday and I’m playing today.
That’s it.
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) October 2, 2022
Watt said he suffered what is called atrial fibrillation. According to the Cleveland Clinic, atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rhythm that begins in the heart’s upper chambers that can end up being extremely rapid. On Thursday, his heart was shocked back into rhythm.
Still, Watt plans to play Sunday against the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte. Watt was listed as questionable due to a calf injury, but he expected to play nonetheless. This new revelation throws an entirely new wrinkle into the equation, and the hope is that Watt is not seriously in danger.
Watt has played in two games this year after missing the first game with the said calf injury. He has registered three tackles and two sacks on the season. Now, he will look to help the Cardinals improve to 2-2 as they face the Panthers on Sunday at 1 p.m.