As a three-time NFL defensive player of the year, J.J. Watt has already shown he's ready for prime time. On February 1, he'll have a chance to expand his boundaries.

The night before the Super Bowl, the Houston Texans defensive end will be the celebrity guest host on NBC's "Saturday Night Live." Watt will become the 27th athlete — and 11th NFL player — to host the late night comedy show.

He joins other NFL greats such as Tom Brady, Joe Montana, Walter Payton and Peyton Manning to take the stage "live from New York."

"SNL!!!! I can’t even pretend to hide my excitement about this haha!" Watt posted to his Twitter account. "This is something truly special and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity from Lorne and everyone involved at @nbcsnl. New York City let’s have some fun!!!"

Watt has plenty of previous experience working in front of the camera, appearing in the 2016 movie "Bad Moms" in addition to making several appearances on the FX comedy "The League." He also co-hosted the 2016 CMT Music Awards with Fox sideline reporter Erin Andrews.

Watt just completed his ninth NFL season, returning from a torn pectoral muscle to play in both of the AFC South champions' playoff games — a 22-19 win over the Buffalo Bills and a 51-31 loss to the eventual AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs.

A five-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowl selection, Watt was also named the NFL's 2017 Walter Payton Man of the Year for his charitable efforts.

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