Brian Cushing: J.J. Watt could be greatest defensive player ever

Watt had a monster year in 2012, and teammate Brian Cushing thinks he can be one of the greatest players of all time.

By Jon Benne@LordBenne Jul 2, 2013, 1:57pm EDT

Houston Texans defensive linemann J.J. Watt had a breakout year in 2012, and linebacker Brain Cushing thinks he can be even better.

More Texans coverage at Battle Red Blog

Speaking with ESPN's John Clayton on his "Inside the Huddle" podcast, Cushing raved about his teammate's future prospects:

"The things that he's going to be able to accomplish are unbelievable. When you talk about the potential that he has of really being the greatest defensive player ever, he could be. I know that's very premature but he's that kind of player.

"I think if he just keeps doing what he's doing and obviously stays healthy, he's on that track."

Watt won Defensive Player of the Year last season after racking up 20.5 sacks, 81 tackles and 16 passes defended. He did this all while battling torn ligaments in his elbow suffered in training camp, requiring him to wear an arm brace for the entire season. If Watt can put up that kind of production with that injury, it's scary to think about what he can accomplish while at full strength.

The 6'5, 295-lb. defensive star was taken 11th overall by the Texans in the 2011 NFL Draft.