T.J. Watt

The Steelers are known for many things, but one of the team's most recognizable attributes for decades has been its defense. Over the years, the Steelers organization has been home to some of the greatest defensive players to ever play the game, including one of the most electric players in the game today: T.J. Watt. From the moment he first suited up as No. 90, Watt has been a force to be reckoned with on the field, a game-changer often responsible for helping keep the team alive in hard-fought games through his aggressive play style. In 2020, Watt topped the league in nearly every key defensive stat, and he's on pace to set new records in 2021 — but you'll never hear Watt bragging about his own stats. Instead, his focus is always on the team and its loyal nation of fans, which should speak volumes about his character and who he is as a player. This is only the beginning of Watt's storied career, and as a longtime member of Steeler Nation, words can't express my joy and excitement that comes with watching Watt on the field.

At a time when the Steelers offense is still finding its rhythm and struggling to make plays, T.J. Watt continues to be a beacon of light to Steeler Nation. He's a playmaker who is literally changing the game as arguably the most elite pass rusher in the league. If defenses indeed win championships, it seems like only a matter of time before Watt makes good on his promise to bring the Lombardi back to Pittsburgh.

After a standout season in which Watt led the league in nearly every key defensive stat, Pittsburgh bet big on their rising talent with a multi-year extension that made him the highest-paid defensive player in the entire NFL. The groundbreaking deal was not only one for the records, but also helped to solidify his future with the organization where he will, without a doubt, continue to establish himself among the greatest to ever play the game.