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T.J. Watt Faces Backlash After Steelers’ Loss to Seahawks

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Elie Deglaoui | Last updated Sep 15, 2025 1:50 PM ET

Despite earning a thrilling victory against the New York Jets to win their first game of the season, the Pittsburgh Steelers did not enjoy the same success in Week 2, losing to the Seattle Seahawks by a score of 31-17.

Though there were plenty of players who failed to step up for Pittsburgh, perhaps none of them are facing as much backlash as star linebacker T.J. Watt is after recording four total tackles with no sacks or tackles for loss.

Before the start of the 2025 NFL season, the Steelers signed the Wisconsin alum to a three-year, $123 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in league history. However, two games after signing his new deal, Watt has yet to record a sack, and this drought dates back to last season as he last recorded a sack during the Steelers' Week 15 loss to the eventual champion Philadelphia Eagles.

Amid Watt's struggles, many fans have taken to social media to express their frustrations.

Fans Are Frustrated Following T.J. Watt's Struggles

Watt has been one of the most dangerous defensive players in the NFL since joining the league in 2017. In that time, he has become a seven-time Pro Bowler, a four-time All-Pro selection, and a one-time AP Defensive Player of the Year Award winner. Furthermore, he has led the NFL in sacks three separate times.

There is no doubt that Watt is one of the best players in the league, but his recent play has made many fans frustrated, and they are not afraid to let that be known.

"$41 million a season for TJ Watt and he doesn't have a sack in his last 6 games. I'm sorry that's unacceptable," a fan wrote on X.

"Fans need to give the $41M dollar man Cam treatment. He whined about contract. Got paid. Ghosting production. Unacceptable #90. #HereWeGo," another fan wrote on X.

"We’ve tried to tell you for years he’s nowhere near Myles Garrett," another fan wrote.

"Should’ve never been extended, and should’ve been traded for draft picks. I’ve said that before the extension and I’ll say it again," a fourth fan wrote.

"It was an overpay at the time and looks even worse now," a fifth fan wrote on X.

"Yeah hes fallen off," another fan wrote.

The season is still young, and there are plenty of reasons to believe that the 30-year-old can turn things around. However, until that happens, Steelers fans will likely continue to express their frustrations.

Watt's next opportunity to get back on track will be during Pittsburgh's Game 3 matchup on the road against the New England Patriots.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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