Linebacker TJ Watt has achieved considerable success in his seven-year NFL career. However, he reflects on a major career regret during his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Since being drafted in the first round in 2017, Watt quickly made his mark in the league. He played a pivotal role as the Steelers made the playoffs in his rookie year, contributing with two tackles and a pass deflection in a close postseason defeat.
In subsequent years, Watt established himself as one of the NFL’s top defensive talents. Last season, he enhanced his reputation by equalling the Steelers’ franchise record for career sacks and becoming the first player since official sack tracking to lead the league in sacks three times.
In 2023, Watt’s season was highlighted by 68 tackles, 19 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, and a defensive touchdown, earning him acclaim across the league. Despite his stellar performance, his season was marred by a knee injury that prevented him from playing in the Steelers’ playoff game against the Buffalo Bills, resulting in their elimination from the postseason.
During his time in the NFL, Watt has earned the respect of many by achieving so much within seven years. Apart from his accomplishments, the Steelers star got real and admitted his biggest regret, as written in an article by Matt Hladik for The Spun.
As it stands, Watt has only played three playoff games in 2017, 2020, and 2021. All of those contests ended in a loss for the Pittsburgh star.
It remains to be seen whether Watt can rectify that regret in the coming season or his losing streak will continue. Nevertheless, expect the linebacker to give it his best shot if he makes it back to the playoffs
