During the recent NFL Honors, Myles Garrett was named Defensive Player of the Year by a unanimous vote after another extraordinary campaign, solidifying his position as the league’s foremost edge rusher. While Garrett’s achievement dominated headlines, the absence of T.J. Watt from the award conversation sent a clear message to Pittsburgh Steelers fans: Watt’s era of dominance may be nearing its end.
Many anticipated that 2025 would be Watt’s comeback season.
The High Expectations Surrounding T.J. Watt’s Contract and Performance
After signing a three-year, $123 million extension in the 2025 offseason, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, Watt faced immense pressure to prove his elite status once again. With six All-Pro selections, he seemed the front-runner for major defensive honors. However, Watt was overshadowed by his AFC North rival, Myles Garrett, who delivered an even more dominant season, widening the gap between these two defensive stars.
Though regular-season success does not guarantee postseason glory, context matters greatly.
Both Pittsburgh and Cleveland battled fiercely for the AFC North title, with the Steelers edging out the Browns in a hard-fought race. Yet, that victory feels hollow now, as both franchises remain sidelined during Super Bowl LX, watching from home, and Cleveland boasts the reigning Defensive MVP on its roster.
Decline in Production Signals Challenges Ahead for Watt
T.J. Watt’s reputation as one of the best pass rushers in NFL history is well-established; his ability to disrupt offenses and force quarterbacks into mistakes has been unparalleled. However, the 2025 season revealed cracks in that image. Watt tied for 35th in sacks, recording just seven, which is his lowest total since posting five sacks in 2022. Compounding this was his absence from three games, marking his first time in three years without completing a full season.
In stark contrast, Garrett shattered the all-time record with 23 sacks, emphasizing the growing distance between the two players.
This downturn does not seem attributable to a lack of effort. Watt’s relentless intensity and commitment have never been in question. Instead, the decline appears more physical, reflecting the toll of repeated violent collisions that edge rushers endure throughout their careers.
Approaching his 32nd birthday next season, Watt enters an age bracket that has challenged many elite pass rushers to maintain peak production. He now stands among veterans like Khalil Mack, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Leonard Floyd—players who remain effective but no longer dominate their position.
It is difficult to expect Watt to increase his output moving forward, as the physical demands of his role often limit longevity. Still, declaring him finished would be premature.
Steelers’ Commitment Reflects Confidence in Watt’s Future
The Steelers’ front office clearly shares this cautious optimism. Awarding Watt such a lucrative contract extension was far from a sentimental gesture. The NFL is a results-driven league, and Pittsburgh’s investment signals belief in Watt’s ability to remain a dominant force. The team recognizes intangible factors that statistics may not capture fully—his pressure rates, leadership qualities, and the way offenses continue to adjust their protection schemes specifically to counter him.
Though Myles Garrett is currently distancing himself as the top edge rusher, this very rivalry could ignite a renewed hunger in Watt. The challenge posed by Garrett’s ascendancy might motivate Watt to prove doubters wrong and extend his legacy. If the Steelers’ judgment holds, this difficult phase could spark one final impactful run from their defensive leader rather than a quiet decline.
Myles Garrett wins DPOY after a monster year. #NFLHonors pic.twitter.com/eNTvSZxPf2
— NFL (@NFL) February 6, 2026
