Pittsburgh Steelers star edge rusher TJ Watt has set the bar higher than many thought possible. In his eight seasons in the NFL, Watt has racked up 104 sacks, seven interceptions, 441 combined tackles, and 31 forced fumbles. He’s one of the most dominant defensive players in the league, but even the best can have quiet games. While Watt isn't having a down year, his performance against the Cleveland Browns in Thursday night's 24-19 loss raised some eyebrows.
With just one sack in his last three games, some fans have expressed frustration, even though his numbers aren’t far from his usual pace. Watt’s lower-than-usual production comes at a time when the Steelers have been struggling to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. One factor contributing to his quieter performances is the absence of fellow edge rusher Alex Highsmith.
With Highsmith sidelined due to injury, Watt is facing more attention from offensive lines, which has made it harder for him to get to the quarterback. Highsmith spoke to the media on Wednesday and was asked about Watt's recent dip in production. The linebacker admitted that he knows it’s been frustrating for Watt.
"When you have a guy like that, teams are game planning them," Highsmith said. "But I know he's gonna beat those and he's gonna get back there and make a bunch of plays because that's who he is. His whole career he's been chipped, he's gotten his double blocks, but he's setting record numbers every single year, so we know what type of player he is."
Highsmith’s presence on the field has been crucial in creating opportunities for Watt to shine, as both players feed off each other’s abilities. They also help take attention away from one another and therefore free up room to rush the quarterback.
Highsmith knows not being out there has given offensive lines more ability to key in on Watt and take him out of games.
"Yeah, I think [he is frustrated] in a way, because [of] the competitor that he is," Highsmith said. "Knowing how hard he works and how much he wants to get to the quarterback, I know it is frustrating for him."
It's no surprise that Watt is frustrated with his lack of home run plays, but it's not for selfish reasons. Watt’s frustration stems from his desire to see his defense get consistent pressure on the quarterback.
He understands the impact his performance has on the entire unit, and the defense feeds off his energy and plays. While some might be concerned about Watt’s fewer splash plays, he remains the favorite to win the Defensive Player of the Year Award this season.
Steelers' TJ Watt Still Having A Huge 2024 Season
Through 11 games in 2024, Watt has posted 7.5 sacks and four forced fumbles. While those numbers are still impressive, he’s been receiving extra attention from offensive lines, which has limited his ability to make game-changing plays. Despite the challenges, Watt is undoubtedly motivated to help get his defense back on track.
Expect Watt to come out extra motivated on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. Facing Joe Burrow, Watt will be looking to assert his dominance and remind everyone why he’s still considered one of the most valuable defensive players in the league. Especially after all the comments Myles Garrett made after the Steelers loss to Cleveland.
