Big step for JJ Watt ... the NFL superstar FINALLY went public with his relationship with his pro soccer star girlfriend -- by posting a couply picture on Instagram!
Obviously, this is a big deal.
Watt and pro soccer star Kealia Ohai have been dating for months -- but kept things extremely under wraps. No public outings. No Man Crush Monday or Woman Crush Wednesday posts. Nothing.
Until today ... when Watt posted a photo of the two during a recent beach outing and wishes Ohai a happy birthday.
"Happy Birthday beautiful.