Overwatch's Jake comes out of retirement, returns to Houston Outlaws

Seemingly retired Overwatch League star Jake Lyon decided to surprise his fans the community by announcing that he was coming back to competitive play, returning to the Houston Outlaws for the upcoming 2021 season.

The announcement was made via social media by the Outlaws, with the Texan team previously teasing his return with an ominous picture hours before the reveal.

Once an Outlaw, always an Outlaw, right? #OutlawsNation help us welcome back @jakeow. 2021 is going to be insane. pic.twitter.com/UgdGtwWwCn

— Houston Outlaws (@Outlaws) January 21, 2021

The American DPS player has an extensive career that started way before OWL, with his participation in the 2017 Overwatch World Cup being his highlight pre-OWL, leading USA to an incredible match against South Korea in an ultimately losing effort.

His Overwatch League career has been hit or miss, as the Houston Outlaws have failed to meet the expectations set by fans in both 2018 and 2019, with Jake's leadership seeing as a bright spot amid the mess. 

(Picture Overwatch League)

Jake posted a Twitlonger, explaining that a year off from competing has completely reinvigorated his competitive drive, and has even helped him switch to a healthier lifestyle in the process.

Back to Outlaws

Read: https://t.co/yZ9waefWrS

— Jake Lyon (@jakeow) January 21, 2021

"I badly needed the break last season to recharge and reset. I've changed my eating, exercise, sleeping, and even practice habits," Jake explains.

The damage-dealer also reassured fans that although he's returning as an active player, his role will see him act as a coach more than anything else, leaving room for the likes of Jungwoo "Happy" Lee, Dante "Danteh" Cruz, Kyle "KSF" Frandanisa, and João "Hydration" Telles to shine.

• Read more: Overwatch League 2021 kicks off in April with global online tournaments

"I'm glad to be back with old friends as well as fresh talent. I think together we can deliver a season far better than any in Outlaws history," he concludes.