When NFL legend J.J. Watt and his wife, professional soccer player Kealia Ohai Watt, welcomed their son Koa James Watt in October 2022, they embarked on an extraordinary journey that reshaped their lives and priorities. From Koa’s early days to his milestones, this article delves into the transformative power of fatherhood on one of sports' most celebrated figures.

A New Chapter of Love and Growth

Becoming a Family of Three

The arrival of Koa James Watt marked a profound turning point for J.J. and Kealia. Born on October 23, 2022, Koa brought unprecedented joy and love into their lives. The couple, who had exchanged vows in a picturesque Valentine’s Day wedding in the Bahamas two years earlier, found themselves navigating the thrilling yet challenging world of parenthood. They shared their happiness with fans, posting heartfelt messages on social media. “Love and happiness have reached heights we never even knew existed,” they wrote, capturing the essence of their newfound family life.Koa’s birth not only expanded their family but also deepened their bond as partners. Kealia revealed that becoming parents was a significant adjustment, especially as J.J. transitioned out of his NFL career around the same time. Despite the challenges, they grew stronger together. “We’ve really figured out how to be a good team and work together,” Kealia said, highlighting the importance of communication and support in their relationship.

Koa's Firsts and Milestones

From his earliest days, Koa has been an integral part of J.J.’s life, including attending NFL games. Even as a newborn, he cheered on his dad from the stands, wearing a tiny Cardinals onesie emblazoned with J.J.’s name and jersey number. These moments underscored the significance of family for the Watts. As Koa grew, he continued to be present at milestone events, such as J.J.’s induction into the Houston Texans’ Ring of Honor in 2023, where he watched proudly as his father received accolades.Koa’s first birthday in October 2023 was a poignant reminder of the rapid passage of time and the joys of fatherhood. J.J. reflected on the past year in a touching Instagram post, declaring it the happiest year of their lives. Kealia echoed his sentiments, sharing photos of their baby boy and expressing her amazement at how quickly the time had flown by. For both parents, Koa’s first year was filled with unforgettable memories and cherished moments.

J.J.'s Decision to Retire

J.J.’s decision to retire from the NFL in December 2022 was influenced significantly by his role as a new father. While multiple factors played a part, Kealia revealed that Koa was a “huge part” of the decision. “I know he wanted to be with Koa,” she shared, emphasizing the desire to prioritize family over professional commitments. This choice marked a new chapter for J.J., allowing him to focus on raising Koa and supporting Kealia in her career.Retirement brought about changes in J.J.’s life, but it also provided more opportunities for quality time with his family. He embraced the transformation fatherhood brought to his life and marriage. “It’s a love that I never knew I could have,” J.J. said, expressing admiration for Kealia as she navigated motherhood. Watching her care for their son deepened his appreciation for her strength and dedication.

Traveling Together as a Family

Koa’s early travels showcased the Watts’ commitment to creating lasting memories. At just five months old, he joined his parents on a tropical getaway filled with sunshine, poolside fun, and family bonding. J.J. humorously noted that vacations were no longer leisurely breaks for the parents but rather opportunities to create special moments with Koa.The family continued making travel memories, celebrating holidays abroad and exploring new destinations. In April 2024, J.J. shared glimpses of their Easter holiday on Instagram, featuring heartwarming images of the trio enjoying meals and activities together. These trips highlighted the importance of experiences over material possessions, reinforcing the values J.J. and Kealia hoped to instill in their son.

Vision for Koa's Future

As Koa grows, J.J. and Kealia are already envisioning a future filled with sports and teamwork. During a youth football clinic in Houston in 2023, J.J. expressed his excitement about potentially coaching Koa’s teams. “I imagine we’ll be coaching in some capacity in the future,” he said, noting Koa’s budding interest in sports. Whether chasing a soccer ball or playing with a mini basketball hoop, Koa’s enthusiasm mirrors his parents’ passion for athletics.While many speculate about Koa following in his parents’ footsteps, J.J. and Kealia remain open-minded. They emphasize the importance of letting Koa explore his interests and discover his own path. “We’re really looking forward to him participating, as long as he wants to, and it seems so far like he’s interested,” J.J. said, highlighting the value of nurturing Koa’s individuality and talents.

Sports Legacy and Values

For J.J. and Kealia, sports represent more than just competition; they embody lessons in discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Witnessing Koa’s growing love for sports is particularly rewarding, as they see the positive impact these activities can have on a child’s development. “We obviously love sports because of everything that they teach kids,” J.J. explained, reflecting on the skills and values that shaped his and Kealia’s lives.Though Koa’s future athletic endeavors remain uncertain, J.J. jokingly remarked that his son’s size might influence his options. “He’s a big boy right now, so I don’t know if his endurance and stamina are going to be there for soccer,” he quipped. However, J.J. remains hopeful that Koa will inherit his mother’s speed and agility. “But I can only hope that he gets his mom’s quickness and speed because she’s a hell of an athlete,” he added, showcasing his pride in both Kealia and Koa.