JJ Watt Shares Incredible Story About Philip Rivers

Philip Rivers has decided to hang his pads up after a successful 17-year career in the NFL. That decision has led to reflection from not only Rivers, but other players as well. One of those players is All-Pro defensive lineman JJ Watt.

The longtime Houston Texan took to Twitter to share a story about Rivers and what made him a special talent in the league.

Imagine knowing defenses so well that you understand what a defender is trying to do better than he does. Then imagine being that linebacker and realizing you were in checkmate before the ball was even snapped.

That's Philip Rivers for you. He was great at trash talking, even if it was clean. But he's been an even better quarterback -- and person.

The NC State product finishes his NFL career with 63,440 yards, 421 passing touchdowns and 209 interceptions. The passing yardage sits at No. 5 all time, and so does the passing touchdowns. Impressive numbers for an impressive guy.

Good luck in retirement, Philip! From one Athens, Ala. native to another.

Follow Clint Lamb on Twitter @ClintRLamb.