ESPN News: T.J. Watt Named Steelers Captain for the First Time, Backed by Experience and Resounding Support

PITTSBURGH, PA — July 21, 2025 — In a move that has electrified the Steelers faithful and resonated powerfully inside the locker room, T.J. Watt has been officially named a captain of the Pittsburgh Steelers for the first time in his career.

The decision, announced earlier this week by head coach Mike Tomlin, was met with unanimous approval from teammates, coaches, and fans alike, who point to Watt’s leadership, experience, and relentless performance as a driving force behind the team’s identity.

Watt, 30, is entering his ninth season with the Steelers and has long been considered the emotional and competitive heartbeat of the defense. A former NFL Defensive Player of the Year and a perennial All-Pro selection, Watt’s on-field dominance has never been in question. But it is his growing presence as a vocal leader and mentor that helped earn him the captain’s “C” on his jersey.

“Leadership is earned, not given — and T.J. has earned everything,” said Coach Tomlin. “He’s a guy who sets the standard every single day. His preparation, his intensity, and the way he elevates everyone around him — that’s what you want in a captain.”

Watt’s appointment is not just symbolic. It comes at a pivotal time for a Steelers team balancing young talent with veteran experience, aiming to make a deep playoff run in the upcoming season.

In the locker room, Watt has grown from a feared edge rusher into a respected voice — guiding younger players, holding peers accountable, and bringing focus to every moment.

Upon being named captain, Watt addressed his teammates in a brief but powerful message, punctuated by seven words that have quickly become a rallying cry: “I’m here to lead. Let’s go.”

The phrase, raw and resolute, was shared by linebacker Cole Holcomb on social media and has since gone viral among Steelers fans. “That’s all he said,” Holcomb wrote. “That’s all he needed to say.”

For fans, Watt’s captaincy feels long overdue. On social media, hashtags like #CaptainWatt and #LetsGoSteelers trended within hours. Former teammates and NFL legends chimed in with praise, citing his blue-collar mentality and unwavering commitment to the game.

Quarterback Kenny Pickett echoed that sentiment. “T.J. being captain just feels right. He’s the guy everyone listens to, the one who shows up every Sunday like it’s war. We trust him.”

With training camp in full swing and Week 1 approaching, Watt’s new title only solidifies his standing as one of the league’s most respected figures — not just for his sacks and stats, but for his leadership when it matters most.

For the Steelers, the message is clear: With T.J. Watt as captain, they’re ready to go to battle — and they’re going together.