Steelers’ T.J. Watt not doing coaches any favors: ‘I find it interesting he’s getting a little bit grumpy’
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt has always been known for his intense focus and relentless work ethic, traits that have made him one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL. Recently, head coach Mike Tomlin shared a story that perfectly encapsulates Watt’s blue-collar mentality and no-nonsense approach. Reflecting on their first meeting before Watt’s pro day in 2017, Tomlin revealed, “I find it interesting he’s getting a little bit grumpy,” a comment that underscored Watt’s disdain for distractions and his eagerness to prove himself through action. “He was really annoyed by the whole process,” Tomlin added, praising Watt’s mindset as a driving force behind his incredible career.
Watt’s attitude has translated into elite performance on the field. In the 2023 season, he led the NFL with 19 sacks, becoming the first player to lead the league in sacks three times since the statistic became official in 1982. This remarkable consistency has solidified his status as the heart of the Steelers’ defense. However, Watt’s intensity doesn’t just push himself—it sets a tone for the entire team.
Despite his individual success, the Steelers faced challenges during the season, including a five-game losing streak and a disappointing 28-14 loss to the Baltimore Ravens in the wild-card round. After the loss, Watt was candid about the team’s struggles, stating, “It’s a collection of things and it starts with myself. I need to play better. We need to play better.” His accountability and leadership have been a hallmark of his career, and they will undoubtedly play a key role as the Steelers regroup for the next season.
As Pittsburgh moves forward, Watt’s combination of raw talent, unrelenting work ethic, and no-nonsense mentality will remain essential to the team’s success. Tomlin’s comments provide insight into what makes Watt so special: a rare blend of focus, humility, and a hunger to continuously improve, even as one of the league’s top defensive players.