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3 perfect landing spots for J.J. Watt includes Packers, Steelers

By Russell S. Baxter

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 03: J.J. Watt #99 of the Houston Texans reacts to a defensive stop during the second half of a game against the Tennessee Titans at NRG Stadium on January 03, 2021 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 03: J.J. Watt #99 of the Houston Texans reacts to a defensive stop during the second half of a game against the Tennessee Titans at NRG Stadium on January 03, 2021 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /
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PITTSBURGH, PA – SEPTEMBER 27: T.J. Watt #90, Derek Watt #44 of the Pittsburgh Steelers and J.J. Watt #99 of the Houston Texans talk after Pittsburgh’s 28-21 win at Heinz Field on September 27, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA – SEPTEMBER 27: T.J. Watt #90, Derek Watt #44 of the Pittsburgh Steelers and J.J. Watt #99 of the Houston Texans talk after Pittsburgh’s 28-21 win at Heinz Field on September 27, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /

2. Pittsburgh Steelers

Yes, it would be hard to ignore the aspect that outside linebacker T.J. Watt and fullback Derek Watt are already members of the Black and Gold. But adding J.J. Watt to a defensive unit that can get after the quarterback but still lacks consistency against the run would be a pretty wise move.

The 10-year pro is already well-schooled in the 3-4 scheme and could add depth to a three-man front featuring Cameron Heyward and Stephon Tuitt but could use another veteran insurance policy.

Watt could also bring an intensity to Mike Tomlin’s club that hasn’t really been seen in recent years. The Pittsburgh Steelers have led or been tied for the lead in sacks four consecutive years. And these past two seasons, thanks in large part to the acquisition of All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, the team has regained an opportunistic touch that was missing for too many seasons.

This Watt has been slowed by injuries in recent years but he did play and start all 16 games in 2020, finishing with 52 tackles, five sacks and seven passes defensed. He also forced two fumbles and had two of Houston’s NFL-low nine takeaways.

More importantly, he still brings the intensity and perhaps another playoff-experienced performer could help a squad that has wilted badly in its last three postseason contests.

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