Steelers: One historic stat proves TJ Watt deserves Defensive Player of the Year

The Steelers offense got all the praise for their comeback against Indy, but don’t forget about TJ Watt.

Watt added two sacks to his tally on Sunday in the Steelers comeback against the Colts, making his tally 15 on the season. What’s even more impressive is that Watt is largely doing this on his own, as his friends on the Steelers pass rush — Bud Dupree and Devin Bush  — are out for the season.

Pittsburgh’s exceptionally thin at the linebacker position heading into the postseason, which while hurting their chances at prevailing in the AFC, likely helps Watt’s Defensive Player of the Year case.

Watt has more sacks than the entire Tennessee Titans team. Those are the same Titans that went out and signed Jadeveon Clowney this offseason to aid their pass rush, and the same Titans that are favored to win the AFC South.

The Steelers would be lost without Watt

Were it not for Watt, Pittsburgh wouldn’t be in this position — AFC North champions despite a three-game losing streak that just ended this week. The Steelers still have the most dangerous pass rush in football because of Watt and a few stalwarts on the defensive line. Not to mention, the attention Watt receives from rival offensive lines opens up opportunities for other, less accomplished players to get to the quarterback.

Despite facing constant double-teams since the loss of Dupree opposite of him, Watt’s production has hardly wavered. Entering the postseason, Pittsburgh’s pass rush is undoubtedly the strength of their team. Should they pose any threat to the Kansas City Chiefs, it will be because of their ability to get pressure on last year’s Super Bowl MVP with their front four.

Watt deserves recognition as the NFL’s best pass-rusher. That much is clear. Numbers never lie.