Steelers outside linebacker TJ Watt is undeniably one of the best defenders in the league. But he also presents a distinct challenge for quarterbacks when it comes to the passing game.
Entering his eighth season, Watt has seven career interceptions — two of which came from Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. In an interview with Forgive my opinion podcast, Burrow looked at what makes Watt so difficult to play.
“Yes, I can definitely feel [him],” Burrow said. “TJ is a unique player in this league. There is no other defensive lineman I should treat like a DB. I have to be aware of where he is because he will just jump and catch it. And there is no one else who can do that.
“You have to be alert for him in the passing game, which is unique, I would say.”
Watt finished second in the 2023 AP Defensive Player of the Year voting after recording 19.0 sacks, 19 tackles for loss, 36 quarterback hits, eight passes defensed and one interception. The 2017 first-round pick has 12.0 sacks, seven passes defended and two Bengals quarterback picks in his career.
