T.J. Watt’s 2025 checklist: 3 goals within reach

T.J. Swat

Even when T.J. Watt isn’t piling up sacks, his influence on the field remains undeniable. Opposing offenses routinely scheme to slow him down, often dedicating extra blockers or shifting protections to keep him away from the quarterback. But Watt’s versatility allows him to affect the game in ways that go far beyond the stat sheet.

In run defense, Watt continues to be a force. In 2024, he recorded 61 total tackles, including 19 tackles for loss. Watt’s knack for disrupting passing lanes is another underrated aspect of his game. Though he didn’t record an interception in 2024, he knocked down four passes at the line of scrimmage, using his timing and awareness to throw off quarterbacks’ rhythm. These deflections often stall drives and frustrate offensive coordinators.

Perhaps Watt’s most impactful plays are forced fumbles. He added six more in 2024, bringing his career total to 33—ranking among the league’s elite in that category. Whether it’s a strip sack or a well-timed punch during a tackle, Watt has a proven ability to create momentum-shifting turnovers.

Look for Watt to improve on creating turnovers this upcoming season, with interceptions and forced fumbles both attainable as improvements over 2024.

Even when he doesn’t reach the quarterback, Watt’s pressure alters the course of plays. His 27 quarterback hits in 2024 show how often he forces hurried throws, broken timing, and off-platform mechanics. These subtle disruptions frequently lead to incompletions or interceptions, even if Watt doesn’t get direct credit.

With 108 career sacks—ranking 31st all-time and just 15 away from cracking the top 20—Watt will continue to etch his name as one of most complete defenders in NFL history.

Moving Around

Cameron Heyward has long been a stalwart of Pittsburgh’s defense, and even as he enters his age-36 season, he’s shown few signs of slowing down. Still, some natural regression is reasonable to anticipate, and the Steelers may benefit from managing his workload more strategically this year.

One potential adjustment could involve T.J. Watt taking occasional snaps along the interior of the defensive line.

While it might require some adaptation, Watt’s presence inside would present a fresh challenge for opposing offenses—forcing them to shift protection schemes toward the middle rather than focusing solely on the edge. It would also allow for other edge rushers, such as Nick Herbig and rookie Jack Sawyer, to play simultaneously – something that Pittsburgh has done in the past with multiple outside linebackers on the field.

During training camp, Watt also spent time switching sides with Alex Highsmith, as the duo explored new ways to increase their disruption against opposing offenses. The rotation is part of a broader effort to keep blockers off balance and maximize their pass-rushing versatility.