Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt is still getting the respect his reputation has earned for him.
According to Pro Football Focus, the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year is the best edge defender in the league ahead of the 2020 season — not best over 30 years old, or best 3-4 defensive end — the best in the NFL.
It’s possible to forget that J.J. Watt was once the most devastating defensive force in the NFL before injuries began to attack that player and Aaron Donald arrived on the scene. Watt hasn’t quite got back to that level, but he’s gotten a lot closer than many think. His overall PFF grade in 2018 — his first healthy season since 2015 — was 90.5, and through the first eight games of last year, he was leading the league in total pressures before a pectoral injury took him out. Watt is still an elite-level pass-rusher and has been inching back towards his best form. If he can take another small step in that direction in 2020, he will still be the league’s best edge defender and a true Defensive Player of the Year candidate.
Rookie defensive tackle Ross Blacklock says what he has learned the most about Watt is his work ethic is the basis for his success.
“He’s a workhorse,” Blacklock said. “Interesting in a good way. Just trying to pick his brain every once in a while. Just being able to learn from him. He’s a super-vet.
“He’s been in the league since I was a freshman in high school. Just being able to play next to him and play with him, it’s an honor. I’m trying to learn as much as I can while I’m here and while he’s here.”
If Watt can teach youngsters like Blacklock a few lessons while also reminding opposing offenses that he is still as formidable as ever, the Texans defense will be in prime position to help defend their AFC South title.
