The coverage during the NFL preseason is sometimes extreme. Statistics in particular are dissected. A former NFL star is not happy about this.

NFL training camps are currently underway and franchises are preparing for the new season. The sports media is scrutinizing everything that happens—perhaps even too much. At least that’s the opinion of J.J. Watt.

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On “X,” the former NFL star complained vehemently about the nature of the reporting: “The training camp statistics are insane and ridiculous.”

The 36-year-old is particularly bothered by the development in recent years: “You used to think it was all just jokes, but now you see how seriously it’s being reported. You have no idea what the purpose of this time is, what the goals are, what the context is.”

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The former defensive end is also bothered by the fact that the media takes the preparation far too seriously. “More importantly, practice is for practicing. It’s okay to fail sometimes. You should try new things, see what works and what doesn’t. If you only do what works, you’ll never grow, adapt or change,” Watt explains.

This criticism resonates in the sports world. “I can’t find a number big enough to back that up,” is the response from Giants presenter John Schmeekl.

Interestingly, Watt will also be working in the media landscape in the future. Starting next season, he will be a player analyst for CBS Sports. It’s a new challenge he is looking forward to with enthusiasm: “I couldn’t pass up the opportunity.”