Steelers Rookie Jack Sawyer Admits TJ Watt Is Passing Down His Secret Tricks To Him

The Pittsburgh Steelers feel very good about fourth-round pick Jack Sawyer. The team was high on the former Ohio State linebacker leading up to the 2025 NFL Draft, and when he unexpectedly fell to the fourth round, the Steelers jumped at the chance to add him to the roster. Despite being a game-changing force for the Buckeyes and playing a key role in their national championship run, Sawyer entered the league a bit under the radar. Pittsburgh believes they got tremendous value, and early signs from training camp support that belief.

So far, Sawyer has impressed with his energy, toughness, and ability to learn quickly. Coaches and teammates have taken notice of his physical style of play and high football IQ. There is growing confidence that he can contribute earlier than expected. The Steelers have a strong track record of developing defensive talent, and Sawyer is already showing signs that he could be next in line.

What makes Sawyer’s situation even more promising is the mentorship he is receiving from one of the best pass rushers in the game. In a recent interview with SteelerNation.com reporter Jake Boico, Sawyer revealed that TJ Watt has been sharing his secret tricks and teaching him how to succeed at the professional level. Learning directly from a former Defensive Player of the Year is a rare opportunity, and Sawyer is making the most of it.

"Yeah, no it is awesome you know what I mean," Sawyer said. "There is no better guy you want to learn from. He has been great. He's a good guy on the field too. So being able to learn from him, seeing how he attacks every day, whether it's on the field or off the field, and in recovery. It has been great."

When Watt came out of Wisconsin, many believed he had the potential to become a solid NFL player. Few expected he would develop into one of the greatest defenders the game has ever seen. That is exactly what he has done. Watt was recently rewarded with a massive contract worth $41 million per year, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, at least for now.

Since being drafted by the Steelers in 2017, Watt has recorded 108 sacks and built a reputation as one of the most dominant defensive players in the league. His ability to take over games with momentum-shifting plays has made him a true superstar and the cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s defense. Sawyer, who enters the league with a similar build, relentless motor, and focused mindset, now has the unique opportunity to learn directly from him.

This kind of mentorship could be extremely valuable for both Sawyer and the Steelers. With Watt leading by example and passing on his knowledge, Sawyer has a chance to develop faster and reach his full potential. If he can absorb even a fraction of what has made Watt so special, Pittsburgh may have secured another long-term difference-maker on defense.

Steelers' Jack Sawyer Very Lucky To Learn From TJ Watt

Sawyer has already shown flashes of what he can bring to the table. He’s quick off the edge, plays with aggression, and doesn’t shy away from physicality. What stands out the most, though, is how coachable he is. The Steelers coaching staff has praised his willingness to learn and apply feedback quickly, something that should only help him as he adjusts to the speed of the NFL.

Being around someone like Watt on a daily basis is the kind of experience most young players never get. It’s not just about learning pass rush moves. It’s about understanding how to study film, how to prepare during the week, and how to carry yourself like a pro. If Sawyer continues to build on what he’s already started, the Steelers could have something special brewing at outside linebacker for years to come.