Steelers’ Cam Heyward Absolutely Feels TJ Watt Had Defensive Player Of The Year Award Stolen From Him

Pittsburgh Steelers star linebacker, TJ Watt, notably skipped the NFL Honors Award ceremony, sparking speculation that he sensed he wouldn't win the AP Defensive Player of the Year Award. As anticipated, the award went to Myles Garrett, the standout defensive force from the Cleveland Browns. 

Despite Garrett's stellar performance during the season, Watt surpassed him in every crucial metric used to assess defensive prowess. Yet, despite Watt's significant statistical edge, the award eluded him. The snub left many Steelers fans dismayed and ignited a fervent debate across various media platforms, with numerous voices, including impartial observers, echoing the sentiment that Watt was unfairly overlooked.

Adding to the irony, Watt's teammate, Cam Heyward, received the 2023 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year award during the same event, further accentuating Watt's absence from the ceremony.

During an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, Heyward, alongside guest host Jim Jackson, delved into discussions about the Steelers' offseason strategies. Jackson took the opportunity to inquire about Heyward's experience playing alongside Watt, widely regarded as one of the NFL's premier defensive talents.

“I think the thing that sticks out with TJ is he has a serial killer approach. He doesn’t say a lot, but he lets his play do the talking. You see the energy on Sunday, but everything is so calculated. Everything is about no wasted steps and no wasted movements. I just think his technique is flawless. He’s always trying to get better.”

Heyward passionately shared what he thinks makes Watt truly exceptional. He expressed his deep appreciation for having Watt as a teammate and didn't shy away from discussing his belief that Watt deserved more recognition, feeling he was snubbed for the Defensive Player of the Year Award.

“Man, he is a complete player. I think he was robbed of defensive player of the year. I know Aaron Donald said he was robbed a couple of years ago, but man, that dude is a complete player and he’s the best defensive player in our league right now.”

Although Watt didn't secure the Defensive Player of the Year Award for the 2023 season, it's worth noting his previous triumph in 2021. Speculating on why he missed out this time is tricky. Watt's dominance was evident, leading the NFL in sacks with an impressive tally of 19 for the season. Additionally, he tallied 68 tackles, 19 of which were crucial tackles for a loss, and recorded 36 quarterback hits.

Beyond his prowess as a sack master, Watt's impact on the game extends far beyond just pressuring opposing quarterbacks. His versatility shines through as he seamlessly transitions into coverage, disrupting plays in various ways. In fact, he showcased his multifaceted skill set with one interception, eight passes defensed, three fumble recoveries, and four forced fumbles, illustrating his ability to influence the game across multiple dimensions.

Heyward and Watt stand as linchpins for the Steelers' success, particularly when the offense faces challenges. Serving as the defensive backbone, they have been instrumental in securing victories throughout the regular season. However, despite their formidable presence, postseason triumphs have been elusive. Watt, in particular, has yet to taste playoff success, with his hopes dashed in 2023 due to an untimely injury suffered during the regular season finale.

Steelers' Cam Heyward And TJ Watt Are Thankful To Have Russell Wilson

As the Steelers' offense still grapples with the departure of Ben Roethlisberger, the team's defense has valiantly held the fort, keeping Pittsburgh afloat. Now, with the acquisition of veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, there's renewed hope in the Steel City. Heyward eagerly anticipates joining Wilson on what he perceives as a journey for redemption.

Watt, too, voiced his enthusiasm for Wilson's arrival, expressing gratitude for finally having a seasoned quarterback to navigate the challenges of the fiercely competitive AFC North. With the buzz surrounding their offseason moves, the Steelers enter the 2024 season with lofty expectations. Both defensive stars welcome Wilson to the fold, poised to defy any doubts cast upon them.