HOUSTON – TIME named Houston Texans star J.J. Watt to the 2018 TIME 100, its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
The Time 100 began in 2004 and recognizes each year’s outstanding pioneers, artists, leaders, icons, and titans who stand out for activism, cultural impact, community participation, and/or achievements, with a special emphasis on people whose influence is expected to grow.
Watt is listed as a leader and had his Time 100 profile penned by Houston mayor Sylvester Turner, who praises Watt for rallying the community and helping raise over $37 million for Hurricane Harvey relief.
“Every few years, a professional athlete touches the heart and soul of a city in a way that has nothing to do with athleticism. Such is the case with Houston Texans star J.J. Watt, who is a star on and off the field.
Hurricane Harvey was a historic storm that dumped more than 50 inches of rain, damaged more than 300,000 homes and shattered lives. As Houston’s mayor, I led the response and resiliency efforts. But government can’t do everything for everyone. J.J. tackled Harvey’s destruction the same way he obliterates his opponents on the football field. He raised more than $37 million for hurricane recovery and delivered water, food and supplies to storm victims. In the process, he lifted the spirits of all Houstonians.”
Sylvester even suggests that Watt could become the City of Houston’s next mayor, if and when he retires from the gridiron. Considering the impact that Watt has had, not only on Houston but around the world, there may be no limit to what Watt will accomplish both on and off the field.
With all the great things he’s managed to accomplish and the legacy he’s built in the NFL and in his community, we might be seeing a lot more of J.J. Watt featured in Time magazine for a long time to come.
