NFL analysts believe T.J. Watt can get back to where he belongs after offering a hot take on his 2025 season with the Steelers

Hot Take: T.J. Watt claims his fourth single-season sack title. in 2025

Pittsburgh's defensive investments in names like Derrick Harmon and Darius Slay should have the team well-positioned to finish in the top 10 in scoring defense for the sixth time in seven years. The difference this season? The Steelers have every reason to aspire to be better than in the 20s in scoring offense with Aaron Rodgers at the helm.That means more complimentary game scripts, which means more time to tee off on opposing quarterbacks. Watt's one of the league's best pure pass rushers, and he had 19 sacks as recently as 2023. - Kyle Crabbs

It's a heady take and one that makes a ton of sense. Complementary football is the bread and butter of the Steelers' system. They want to force turnovers, take care of the ball, play perfect special teams, and win time of possession. Marching up and down the field, opposed to going three and out and starting multiple quarterbacks in a season would be a big lift for Watt and the entire Steelers defense. 

If the Steelers' secondary can be better this year, I think Watt should be the odds-on favorite to lead the league in sacks as well as to win Defensive Player of the Year. The biggest hurdle still remaining is getting his new contract figured out so there are no distractions in his way come the regular season, but I'd be surprised if the two sides aren't able to come to an agreement before training camp concludes. - Destin Adams

With the safety trio of Fitzpatrick, Elliott, and Thornhill to go alongside a corner group that got better with Darius Slay and Brandin Echols in the slot, Watt's backend should be better, too, meaning he can rush with confidence in 2025. 

A more confident Watt is the last thing offenses want to see.