Cardinal JJ Watt’s defense to cover funeral costs for those killed in the Waukesha tragedy
As much as JJ Watt’s playing throughout his career has told his story, often also showing his generosity in times of need.
His philanthropic efforts were on display once again after he agreed to pay funeral expenses for the six people killed in the attack on a parade in Waukesha after a car plowed into a crowd at a Christmas parade.
JJ Watt is taking care of the funeral expenses for all those killed in the Waukesha Christmas Parade. It was a great gesture. He has a very big heart.
– Cory Jennerjohn (@CoryJennerjohn) November 23, 2021
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Watt, a Wisconsin native and Badger alum, has taken similar measures before. In 2018, he offered to cover funeral costs for those killed in the Santa Fe High School shooting, and as Hurricane Harvey ravaged Houston and the Bay Area, Watt raised $37 million. from a $200,000 goal to help rebuild the area.
But the nature of his charity work is more than just money.
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Watt dressed up as Batman to surprise children in a Houston hospital, donated game supplies to the families of the victims of the Sandy Hook shooting, and is also known for his work with veteran groups.
In addition to Watt’s three Defensive Player of the Year awards and the five All-Pro First Team titles he’s won, he’s also been named the 2017 Walter Payton Man of the Year by the NFL, given annually to honors a player’s volunteering and charitable work.
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Currently ending defense with the Cardinals, Watt joined Arizona in March 2021, signing a two-year, $28 million deal. He suffered a shoulder injury that was originally supposed to end the season, though Cardinals have not ruled out a return of Watt for the end of this season.