Minneapolis-based Wheaties has named professional football athletes and brothers J.J. Watt and T.J. Watt as the new champions to be featured on its orange box.
The Watt brothers have always prioritized family and community throughout their football careers, making them “ideal Wheaties Champions and first-ever brother pair to be featured on the Wheaties box,” according to the company.
“Built around a uniting love for football, the Watt family is grounded in perseverance, togetherness and a commitment to doing the right thing when it matters most, while serving communities in their lives outside of football,” Kathy Dixon, senior brand experience manager, said in a statement.
“That’s what being a Wheaties Champion is all about, and one of the many reasons we’re so proud to feature J.J. and T.J. on the cover of this limited-edition box.”
For more than 100 years, the iconic Wheaties box has named prominent athletes on its front, honoring what it means to be a champion and recognizing those who are not only the best at their sports but who have broken barriers and made significant contributions to the world at large.
After high school football careers, the Watt brothers each went on to play at the college level in their home state of Wisconsin.
J.J. was selected No. 11 Overall Pick in the 2011 draft and went on to have a groundbreaking 11-year professional football career before retiring in Arizona after the 2022 season. T.J., who was named the best defensive player in the league in 2021, was drafted in the first round to play alongside his brother Derek in Pittsburgh in 2017, where he became the first rookie starting linebacker for the team in 30 years.
This is the first time that Wheaties has chosen a duo to be featured since 1934, and the first brothers to be on the cereal box together. J.J. and T.J. are also joined by their brother Derek, who is featured on the back of the box. Past athletes highlighted on the Wheaties box include Simone Biles in 2022, Michael Jordan and Muhammad Ali in 2021 and Lebron James in 2020.
“It is a childhood dream come true to be on the next Wheaties box,” the duo shared.
“To be included among the incredible roster of athletes who have been featured over the years is a true honor. We hope this box is a reminder for athletes and people everywhere to persevere – on the field and in life – and always champion what you’re passionate about.”
The Watt brothers limited-edition Wheaties Box will be available at major retailers nationwide in early August.
