Wheaties has been known as the Breakfast of Champions for almost a century. The cereal brand has become known for being associated with athletes who grace the cover of the box. The two newest athletes to earn the honor are brothers and former Wisconsin Football stars J.J. and T.J. Watt. Both Watts took to Twitter to announce the news on Tuesday.
Growing up my brothers and I would sit at the breakfast table together and share “the breakfast of champions” while reading the inspiring biographies of the cover athletes. Fast forward to today, I am incredibly humbled and honored to be on the cover of this years box with my… pic.twitter.com/SS9BNd89C2
— TJ Watt (@_TJWatt) July 11, 2023
Wisconsin Football legends J.J. and T.J. Watt to be featured on the next Wheaties box cover
The Watt brothers have significantly impacted numerous places on and off the field. Whether it’s their play on the field at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and professionally at the NFL level or their work within different communities, the Watts have always made their presence known in everything they do.
J.J. Watt was the first of the brothers to don the cardinal and white for the Badgers. Watt changed his position after playing tight end at Central Michigan during his freshman season, and the transition paid off for him big time. In two seasons with the Badgers, J.J. Watt accumulated 106 total tackles, 36.5 tackles for loss, and 11.5 sacks as a defensive end.
J.J. Watt was also a member of the last Badgers team to beat Ohio State in 2010 when the Badgers upset the top-ranked Buckeyes at Camp Randall Stadium. Watt made a considerable impression on the game, recording two sacks and three tackles for loss with four total tackles.
Derek Watt and T.J. Watt followed, carving out great careers with the Badgers. All three Watts took the same road as Badgers, all switching positions during their careers. Derek was a fullback converted from a linebacker, and T.J. was a linebacker converted from the tight end spot.
All three were also selected in the NFL Draft following their careers in Madison. J.J. Watt was selected 11th overall in 2011 by the Houston Texans, Derek Watt was taken 198th overall in 2016 by the San Diego Chargers, and T.J. Watt went 30th overall to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2017.
Although J.J. and T.J. are featured on the cover, it’s vital to mention Derek due to the entire Watt family’s impact on the university and its football program. The trio of Watt brothers have all carved out successful careers collegiately and professionally. Now J.J. and T.J. will get to add Wheaties box cover to their list of accolades.
Stay tuned for Wisconsin Athletics news and coverage with football season approaching.