In just two seasons, Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt has established himself as one of the best all-around linebackers in the league. He’s proven himself to be elite in all phases of the game. The Steelers traditionally have used their outside linebackers as pass-rush specialists but Watt is breaking the mold.
And Watt even found a way to get 13 sacks in 2018 while dropping into coverage on 131 snaps last season according to Pro Football Focus.
These conflicting stats does make you wonder if Watt is dropping into coverage too much. I understand last season was a necessity because of the lack of athleticism on the back end of the Pittsburgh defense. But with additions like Steven Nelson, Devin Bush and Mark Barron, will this free up Watt to rush the passer even more?
Or is this simply a case of finding balance with Watt? Pittsburgh led the league in sacks in 2018 but overall consistent pressure wasn’t there. The coaches might feel like better coverage on the back end will be the fix rather than the other way around.
