T.J. Watt reveals the best offensive tackle he’s ever played against

In a recent interview, T.J. Watt answered questions on a number of topics. Here’s what the Pittsburgh Steelers star had to say about the best player he has faced. 

Since entering the league as the 30th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, T.J. Watt has tormented some quality offensive tackles over the years. There are few who have been able to hold him in check, and his insane production behind the line of scrimmage is a testament to that.

Over his 87 career starts, Watt has compiled an astonishing 77.5 sacks, 88 tackles for a loss, and 162 quarterback hits, according to ESPN stats. These numbers are on par with any player in the league since 2017. Needless to say, there aren’t many tackles who can easily handle this matchup.

Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down for an interview with the 2021 Defensive Player of the Year. Watt fielded a number of questions ranging from his current health status, his brother’s retirement, and even his resting playing weight.

However, I closed the interview by asking Watt, ‘who was the best offensive tackle you’ve ever played against?’ Watt thought for a moment before giving his response:

“With the Super Bowl coming up this weekend, I’ll say Lane Johnson is definitely up there,” Watt stated.”

There were several strong candidates Watt could have noted. He has been matched up against Pro Bowl tackles like Jack Conklin and Orlando Brown Jr. in past years. However, despite playing just one career game against Lane Johnson, that was his pick.

This shouldn’t come as a big surprise, as Johnson is widely regarded as the best right tackle in the NFL. The athletic OT for the Philadelphia Eagles has been a menace against opposing pass rushers for a decade. He has the accolades to prove it — earning 4 Pro Bowls and 2 First-Team All-Pros despite playing 16 games in a season just twice during his professional career.

Watt’s matchup against Johnson came during an impressive All-Pro in 2020. In this contest, Watt was able to manage 3 tackles for a loss, 3 QB hits, and 1 sack in a 38-29 victory. Pro Football Focus believes that Johnson still won this matchup as Watt earned a 61.0 overall grade in this performance (though his worst grade came in coverage). Watt did, however, record 5 pressures against Johnson in this one, per PFF.

To check out my full interview with T.J. Watt, please visit our YouTube channel where you will find other Pittsburgh Steelers interviews, podcasts, and video shorts! 61.0 overall, 5 pressures