The Pittsburgh Steelers needed help to enter last year’s playoff picture.
Yet despite making it to the postseason, they were no match to the Kansas City Chiefs during their Wild Card game.
Therefore, anything less than a playoff berth in 2022 would be a disappointment for the team and its fans.
But they are painting a different narrative this offseason after losing Ben Roethlisberger to retirement.
While Mitchell Trubisky is their projected starter behind center, rookie Kenny Pickett is strengthening his claim to the role.
Likewise, George Pickens is proving to be an asset in the team’s passing attack.
As the Steelers continue to build on offense, especially on their offensive line, their defense is already established.
They added Larry Ogunjobi to their defensive line and signed safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to a four-year, $73.6 million deal.
Cameron Heyward also had ten sacks last season, while linebacker Alex Highsmith added six.
However, T.J. Watt is their heart and soul on that side of the ball.
Last year, he tied the league’s single-season record for sacks to help him win Defensive Player of the Year honors.
That feat made him the undisputed leader in that category over the last three seasons.
REMINDER
Most Sacks in the NFL since 2019T.J. Watt: 52
Aaron Donald: 38.5
Myles Garret: 38Just something about those genetics 🤯 @_TJWatt pic.twitter.com/xbJkk0zi2t
— CBS Sports HQ (@CBSSportsHQ) August 26, 2022
NFL on CBS shared that Watt’s 52 sacks are the most since 2019.
Aside from his 22.5 last season, he had 15 in 2020 and 14.5 the year before.
Watt also had 13 in 2018 and seven in his rookie year for a total of 72.
Watt’s Career Accomplishments So Far
As of the 2021 season, he has 216 solo tackles, 80 tackles for losses, 150 quarterback hits, 32 passes defended, 22 forced fumbles, and four interceptions.
He has four All-Pro and four Pro Bowl selections.
Watt is also tied for most seasons leading the league in sacks with two.
