LOS ANGELES -- J.J. Watt is going to complete his amazing comeback.
The Cardinals announced Monday that they activated the veteran defensive end from Injured Reserve to the roster in time to play against the Rams in their Wild Card playoff game.
There is no surprise, even with coach Kliff Kingsbury consistently preaching caution during the week as Watt underwent his first real week of practice since Oct. 22 and since he underwent surgery on Nov. 3 for multiple significant injuries in his left shoulder.
"Just J's presence helps guys play with more intensity," defensive coordinator Vance Joseph said. "Having one more good player rushing the passer and playing on first and second down is always a good thing. He is a great player, he is a Hall of Fame player, so if he's one on one during pass downs, he's going to win most of those one on ones.
"The energy he brings, the fire he brings to the defense, it's unquestionable. To have him is a huge lift."
The Cardinals also activated linebacker Ezekiel Turner from IR. Turner went on IR back on Oct. 13. From the practice squad, the Cardinals elevated cornerback Kevin Peterson and defensive lineman Zach Kerr, meaning veteran Bashaud Breeland remains on the practice squad and will not be active for the game.
Watt emphasized last week he wouldn't play if he felt he would be a detriment to the defense. That he should play a little more than two months after surgery -- when he was originally told it would take 4-to-6 months to return to health -- just adds to Watt's legendary career.
"Sadly I've been to quite a few doctors visits and appointments and know how the anatomy works and how surgeries go," Watt said. "(I know) what things you can push and what things that can be pushed to the limits and what things you can't push to the limits and when you should back off and be very careful."
In 2019, Watt came back early from what was believed to be a season-ending elbow injury to play in the postseason for the Texans, and helped Houston in a comeback Wild Card win over the Bills.
"Those are the things you come back for, and that's why you play the game, for those moments to win those games," Watt said. "I'm looking forward to that opportunity."
