“J.J. Watt Opens Up on Why He Donated $3 Million to Wisconsin Football: ‘This Is Not the Program I Know’”

J.J. Watt: Wisconsin Royalty Gives Back with $3 Million Donation to Revive Badgers Football

Few names in football are as synonymous with Wisconsin as J.J. Watt. The former Badgers star and NFL legend has always worn his home state’s pride on his sleeve, but his latest act of generosity cements his legacy beyond the gridiron. Watt has donated $3 million to the Wisconsin Badgers football program, citing concerns about the program’s direction and his desire to ensure future generations of players have the resources they need to succeed.

Watt, who played for the Badgers in 2010, spoke openly about his decision, saying he felt a responsibility to give back to the school that shaped him.

“This is not the program I know,” Watt said. “A lot of things are currently going wrong, and I want to help change that. Recruiting should be easy when you have a powerhouse like Wisconsin, but you need the right facilities, the right resources, and the right people in place. That’s what this donation is about—helping this program get back to where it should be.”

One of Watt’s biggest concerns was Wisconsin’s facilities, particularly the Badgers’ gym.

“They need a lot of stuff there. Strength and conditioning, recovery rooms, equipment—it all plays a role in building a championship-caliber program. If you want to attract the best players, you have to give them the best tools.”

Watt’s deep connection to Wisconsin runs through his blood. Raised in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, he walked on at Wisconsin after transferring from Central Michigan, developing into a dominant defensive force before being drafted by the Houston Texans in 2011. He went on to become a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and one of the most feared pass rushers in league history.

Despite his NFL fame, Watt has never forgotten where he came from.

“This school made me who I was. The least I can do is give back and make sure the next generation of Badgers has everything they need to succeed.”

With Watt’s donation, Wisconsin football now has a major boost in its efforts to reclaim its Big Ten dominance. His impact on the program—both as a player and now as a benefactor—will be felt for years to come.