J.J. Watt offers high praise for Aidan Hutchinson, Barry Sanders

Future Hall-of-Famer J.J. Watt offered some praise for a current Lions player—and got an unexpected response from a Lions legend.

During the Detroit Lions ‘ big win over the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card round, social media was a buzz. While the national audience was watching the best game of the weekend, there was a fun interaction between Lions Hall-of-Famer Barry Sanders and soon-to-be Hall-of-Famer J.J. Watt on Twitter (X) that Detroit fans will surely appreciate.

Watt, a three-time defensive player of the year, is one of the best NFL players we have had the privilege to watch over the past decade-plus. And in the year since his retirement, he has taken on a lot of ventures, including staying connected to the NFL via television, podcasts, social media, and more.

While watching the Detroit-LA game, Watt shared his thoughts on the action and specifically commented on Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson’s improved pass rushing technique—an area where Watt, as a former edge rusher, is an expert in.

The next morning, Watt’s comment caught the attention of Sanders—who was in Ford Field attending the Lions playoff game—and the Lions legend offered a light-hearted and clever question:

Watt’s response to Barry was fantastic (and likely 100% accurate):

Sanders reciprocated the compliment and offered a respectful response, praising not only J.J. but also his brother T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers —who is also an edge rusher and former defensive player of the year.

It’s always fun to see interactions like this on social media, where legends of the sport can chat and share praise.