T.J. Watt has established himself as a premier NFL linebacker, known for his consistent high-level performance and impact on the field. After being selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers as the 30th overall pick in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, T.J. Watt quickly established his dominance as a premier linebacker.
His consistent high-level performance was further acknowledged with multiple AFC Defensive Player of the Month awards, including November 2019, September 2020, and November 2020. This period culminated in him being honored with the Butkus Award as professional football’s top linebacker in 2020, solidifying his reputation as a formidable presence on the field. The 2021 season marked a career-defining year for Watt, who signed a significant four-year extension with the Steelers worth over $112 million. That same year, he tied the NFL single-season sack record with an astounding 22.5 sacks, an achievement that led to him being named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Throughout his tenure, Watt has consistently been recognized for his exceptional play, accumulating multiple Pro Bowl selections and numerous first-team All-Pro honors. Watt’s remarkable career continued its trajectory, demonstrated by receiving the AFC Defensive Player of the Month award in September 2023. By the end of the 2023 season, he became the first player in NFL history to lead the league in sacks three times. In 2024, he further cemented his legacy by becoming the second-fastest player in NFL history to reach 100 career sacks, achieving this milestone in just 109 games, placing him directly behind NFL legend Reggie White.
Looking ahead, Watt secured his commitment to the Steelers with a three-year extension signed in 2025, valued at $123 million with $108 million guaranteed.