Steelers star TJ Watt and wife Dani reveal heart stopping birth story of daughter Blakely that nearly turned tragic

NFL player TJ Watt and his wife, Dani Watt, have told the terrifying and sentimental narrative of their daughter's birth. Earlier this year, the pair gave Blakely Marie Watt their first child.

But the arrival at a hospital in the United States soon became a life-threatening situation. Doctors told them Blakely’s heart rate was dropping fast, and an emergency C-section was the only option. TJ and Dani described the moment as “hell and back,” while also calling it the toughest and most beautiful day of their lives.

TJ Watt and Dani Watt reveal tense hospital moments during Blakely’s birth

Speaking in an interview with Graham Bensinger in 2025, TJ Watt explained how doctors rushed in after noticing a sudden drop in the baby’s heartbeat.

The Pittsburgh Steelers pass rusher, now 30 years old, recalled being terrified as doctors insisted on an immediate surgery.

Dani Watt had been clear throughout her pregnancy that she did not want a belly birth. She admitted she was emotional when told she had no choice but to undergo a C-section. “I did not want a belly birth, a C-section,” Dani said. “I had done everything to prepare, but in that moment, it was no longer in my control.”

TJ Watt asked the medical team to leave the room for a moment. He said, “We took a couple of deep breaths, I kissed her, and then they wheeled her into the OR.” He described the scene as “so intense,” adding, “Even today, people have died from having C-sections. It felt like life or death right there.”The surgery went well, and Dani delivered Blakely Marie Watt safely. TJ was allowed to stay behind the curtain and support his wife during the procedure.Also Read: MrBeast Sparks Frenzy With Bold NFL Takeover Claim In YouTube Video Before Chargers Vs Chiefs Game

Dani Watt calls the experience “hell and back” but says it brought them closer

After the birth, Dani reflected on the experience, saying it made her and TJ Watt stronger as a couple. “We went through hell and back in a few hours,” she said. “But it brought us closer, and we fell in love all over again.”TJ Watt also praised his wife for her courage. “To see Dani go through that pain and suffering for our family is the most selfless thing,” he said. “It gave us the best thing that’s ever happened to us, Blakely.”Now, with his family safe, TJ Watt has turned his focus back to football. He skipped offseason training earlier this year while negotiating a new deal. In August 2025, Watt signed a three-year contract worth $123 million with the Pittsburgh Steelers, including $108 million guaranteed, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.