The Pittsburgh Steelers’ powerhouse on the edge, TJ Watt, stands in the spotlight as the frontrunner for the coveted 2024 Defensive Player of the Year award. Yet, the path isn’t entirely clear, as several challenges could make this race more competitive than in years past.
Watt’s standing as the favorite relies heavily on his ability to remain healthy for the duration of the season. According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, Watt is perceived as leading the charge, “assuming he finishes the season healthy…this race feels more open than in past years.” It’s a nod to how dynamic this race has become, despite Watt’s undeniable prowess.
The impact Watt has on the Steelers’ defense is monumental. His performance last Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles, where he notched two sacks and forced a fumble, underscores his status as one of the NFL’s elite pass rushers. His ability to disrupt offensive plays consistently keeps Pittsburgh in the playoff conversation within their fiercely competitive AFC North division.
But just as Watt looked to cement his season, a late-game injury against the Eagles put the brakes on his momentum. Head coach Mike Tomlin later described it as a “low ankle injury,” though he offered some positive news: “He was walking around rather comfortably,” Tomlin noted the following Monday. While X-rays returned negative, Watt called his condition “wait-and-see” ahead of a crucial matchup with the Baltimore Ravens.
This injury throws a wrench into Watt’s DPOY aspirations, casting uncertainty over his availability. While Watt frequently tops discussions among NFL insiders, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler points to other defensive standouts, including Xavier McKinney, Kerby Joseph, and Derek Stingley Jr., who have fueled a more open race with their interception-heavy performances.
Adding to the stakes, the Steelers are navigating a tight schedule with games against the Ravens and the Chiefs in a condensed 10-day period. Tomlin has assured that the tight timeline won’t affect player availability decisions, emphasizing, “We’re playing for a division title this week. Those that are healthy will play.”
Watt’s health and performance are crucial both for the Steelers’ divisional ambitions and his own DPOY pursuit. If he can continue his reign of terror on the field, another piece of hardware could grace his already impressive collection. However, the journey is lined with hurdles, and any setbacks—whether from injury or an insurgent performance by a rival player—could shift the DPOY race’s outcome dramatically.
