Philadelphia Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson recently reflected on his toughest matchup of the 2024 season, and it’s no surprise that Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt was the opponent who brought him the most challenges.
Johnson, a four-time Pro Bowl selection, has established himself as one of the premier right tackles in the NFL. However, when he faced Watt in Week 8 of the 2024 season, he knew he was in for a tough day.
“T.J. Watt, he brought hell on earth,” Johnson said in a recent interview. “I was tired, man. That was probably the most tired I was all season. He’s just so relentless, so physical, and so athletic. He’s got every tool in the bag.”
Johnson’s comments are a testament to Watt’s exceptional skills as a pass-rusher. Watt, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, has quickly become one of the most feared defenders in the NFL. His combination of speed, strength, and agility makes him a nightmare for opposing tackles to deal with.
Watt’s performance against the Eagles in Week 8 was a prime example of his dominance. He recorded two sacks, three tackles for loss, and four quarterback hits, and was a constant presence in the Eagles’ backfield.
Johnson, who is known for his physical play, was impressed by Watt’s ability to match his intensity and strength.
“He’s just so physical, man,” Johnson said. “He’s got that strength, that power, and that speed. He’s got every tool in the bag. And he’s just so relentless, man. He never stops coming.”
Despite the challenges he faced, Johnson was able to hold his own against Watt, and the Eagles ultimately emerged victorious in the game. However, Johnson’s comments are a testament to Watt’s exceptional skills as a pass-rusher, and a reminder of why he’s one of the most feared defenders in the NFL.
T.J. Watt’s Rise to Prominence
Watt’s emergence as one of the NFL’s top pass-rushers has been a rapid one. After being drafted by the Steelers in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Watt quickly established himself as a key contributor to the Steelers’ defense.
Over the past three seasons, Watt has developed into one of the most dominant defenders in the NFL. His combination of speed, strength, and agility makes him a nightmare for opposing tackles to deal with, and his relentless motor and physical play have earned him a reputation as one of the toughest defenders in the league.
As the Steelers look to build on their success in the 2024 season, Watt will be a key player to watch. With his exceptional skills as a pass-rusher and his relentless motor, Watt is poised to continue his rise as one of the NFL’s top defenders.
What’s Next for the Steelers?
The Steelers still have several needs to address this offseason, including:
Wide receiver: The Steelers need to add depth and talent to their wide receiver corps.
Cornerback: The Steelers need to add depth and talent to their cornerback position.
Linebacker: The Steelers need to add depth and talent to their linebacker corps.
The Steelers will likely address these needs through a combination of free agency and the draft. With Watt leading the charge on defense, the Steelers are well-positioned to make a deep playoff run in the 2025 season.
