T.J. Watt may have faded out of Defensive Player of the Year consideration late last season, but the Pittsburgh Steelers' all-time sack leader is still viewed by his peers as one of the game's very best players. In the latest batch of NFL Network's Top 100 player reveals, Watt earned a strong No. 11 spot for his efforts in 2024.
It's a small drop from his No. 8 ranking a year ago, unsurprising given his drop in production from 2023 to 2024. Still, his fellow players showed him plenty of respect by keeping him as high as they did.
It's the seventh consecutive appearance for Watt on this list, which is no surprise given his consistent level of production since becoming a full-time starter in his rookie season. The question many have now that he is over 30 and has been extended by Pittsburgh is whether he can continue to dominate in 2025 and beyond.
T.J. Watt's dominance needs to continue for Pittsburgh Steelers to remain competitive
The lack of production during the last third of 2024 is certainly a concern for Watt, as he had just two sacks and one forced fumble over the final five games (including playoffs). His 11.5 sacks would be impressive for most edge rushers, but for Watt, it's the second-lowest total for a healthy season of his career.
He was still dominant against the run, with his instincts and relentless motor making him a nightmare for blockers. With his shiny new $123 million contract, however, being a great run-defending edge isn't going to cut it. He needs to continue to be one of the best pass rushers in the NFL for that contract to be worth it.
I won't count out a return to the 15+ sacks and 60+ pressures version of himself in 2025, but we may have seen the last of the DPOY-level Watt. With all of the other talented players in the Steelers' front seven, he doesn't have to be quite that anymore, but it could be the difference between a top 10 defense and a top three one.
With so many unanswered questions about the offense, the defense is going to have to be the driving force once again for Mike Tomlin's squad in 2025. T.J. Watt continuing to be one of the NFL's best players will be the biggest factor in their ability to do that.