CBS Sports goes out on a limb to side with Steelers' T.J. Watt in controversial NFL debate
For whatever reason, Pittsburgh Steelers pass rusher T.J. Watt catches a lot of flak. A quiet guy who just goes to work and wrecks offenses, media members, fans, and even players have discounted his impact. NFL executives have a different take on Watt, as does Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports, who went out on a […]
For whatever reason, Pittsburgh Steelers pass rusher T.J. Watt catches a lot of flak.
A quiet guy who just goes to work and wrecks offenses, media members, fans, and even players have discounted his impact.
NFL executives have a different take on Watt, as does Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports, who went out on a limb to name Watt a better pass rusher than Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns.
Watt Tops Garrett for CBS
Myles Garrett has technically been steadier over the last half decade, if only because an injury limited Watt to 10 games in 2022. In every other way, though, No. 90 on the Steelers has been the standard-setter for edge rushing, and it’s not even particularly close. Clearing 13 sacks in each of his last five healthy seasons, with close to 30 forced fumbles and 200 quarterback hits in his vaunted career, the six-time Pro Bowler is the heart of Pittsburgh’s old-school program, pairing elite get-off with jarring physicality. If he’s on the field, Watt is easily the most feared player at his position. – Cody Benjamin CBS Sports
I don't want to say that's it greatness fatigue when it comes to Watt, because honestly, he's always struggled to generate support as the best pass rusher in the league.
To me, it's his game. He doesn't have prime Von Miller bend, Myles Garrett's power, or Micah Parsons' explosion. What he does have however, is A- physical traits, that pair with the best instincts at the position, and technical abilities that rival some of the best in the game.
And you don't have to take my word for it about his instincts and innate feel, as Joe Burrow was gushing over how difficult it is to play Watt given his uniqueness.
As Watt enters his age 30 season, there is only one individual accolade left that can really set him apart. His sole focus is on the playoffs, and more importantly, a deep run if and when they get there.
So I'm sure he would appreciate the nod over Garrett, but if Watt even consumes media at this point of his career it would be a surprise. He's likely working out and fishing or jumping in ice-cold lakes as we sit exactly two weeks out of training camp at the time of publication.
Watt won't be short on motivation heading into 2024, that much is certain.
