Two Steelers named finalists for Player of the Year awards
The NFL announced the five finalists for several yearly awards on Thursday. Two Steelers made the cut and have strong cases to win their respective awards.
The first and most obvious finalist announced was LB T.J. Watt for the NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He is joined by Cowboys CB Daron Bland, Raiders DE Maxx Crosby, Browns DE Myles Garrett and Cowboys LB Micah Parsons.
The 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year should win his second such award this season. Watt is tied with or led Crosby, Garrett and Parsons in sacks (19), forced fumbles (four), fumble recoveries (three), passes defensed (eight), interceptions (one) and touchdowns (one).
While Bland had an impressive year with a league-leading nine interceptions, 15 passes defensed and five touchdowns, Watt's impact is far greater as a pass-rusher.
The other finalist announced was rookie CB Joey Porter Jr. for the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. He is joined by Texans DE Will Anderson Jr., Eagles DT Jalen Carter, Rams DT Kobie Turner and Seahawks CB Devon Witherspoon.
The No. 32 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft had 43 tackles, one interception and 10 passed defensed in 2023, despite not earning his first start until Week 8. He quickly established himself as Pittsburgh's best option at cornerback, shadowing opposing teams' No. 1 wide receivers on a weekly basis.
However, his late start to the season will likely play a role in him falling short of winning the award. Anderson Jr., Carter, Turner and Witherspoon have all started from Week 1, posting impressive stat lines.
The fact that Porter Jr. is still in the conversation should speak volumes and only add to his case, but it's difficult to argue against numbers.
Nonetheless, the Steelers have two of the league's top defenders at their respective positions, which should give fans hope for 2024 and beyond.
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