J.J. Watt is one of the best defensive players in NFL history.
Time will tell if his brother, T.J., ends up being even better than him. Regardless, J.J.’s legacy stands by itself and his football opinions are valued and carry weight.
Appearing on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Watt expressed great shock over the fact that one player in particular has yet to be voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame – Dwight Freeney.
Watt may have a point – Freeney was one of the best pass rushers in recent memory.
“I believe, somehow, Dwight Freeney is not in the Hall of Fame. That’s mind-blowing,” Watt stated during the interview with McAfee.
"The TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith combo is a little similar to Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis..
It's mind blowing that Dwight Freeney isn't in the Hall of Fame" ~ @JJWatt #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/7tYzmHO4l2
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) September 20, 2023
Freeney, who retired after the 2017 season, was a force to be reckoned with during his prime. His incredible career included an impressive 125.5 career sacks, with seven seasons featuring double-digit sacks.
Freeney’s individual accolades further support Watt’s endorsement. The Syracuse alumnus was a seven-time Pro Bowler and earned three first-team All-Pro selections.
Additionally, Freeney’s excellence was recognized with his inclusion in the Hall of Fame’s All-Decade Team for the 2000s.
Despite these remarkable achievements, Freeney did not secure a spot in the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.
However, many believe that his illustrious career and undeniable impact on the game of football make him a strong candidate for future induction.
Do you agree with Watt? Should Freeney have been voted in during his first year of eligibility?
Where do you rank him among the best pass rushers of the past 20 years?