Pittsburgh Steelers star edge rusher, T.J. Watt, along with his brothers J.J. Watt and Derek Watt, nearly made possible a football fantasy that could have electrified the Steel City. The prospect of the Watt brothers donning the same black and gold jersey almost became a reality, with J.J. considering a move to the Steelers before ultimately joining the Arizona Cardinals. The decision not to unite the Watt brothers in Pittsburgh was rooted in a sense of respect, as J.J. didn't want to impact T.J.'s contract situation.
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Steelers linebacker TJ Watt knows all about what it takes to be great from his older, now-retired, brother JJ Watt.
As the 2021 NFL offseason was in full swing, J.J. made waves by signing with the Cardinals, turning down the opportunity to play alongside his younger brothers, T.J. and Derek in Pittsburgh. While the idea of the Watt brothers sharing the field was a tantalizing prospect for football fans, J.J. had a compelling reason for his decision.
Speaking about his thought process on the "Green Light with Chris Long Podcast," J.J. revealed his primary consideration.
"Certainly, it would have been awesome to play with my brothers, but T.J. was also going through the contract situation there, and the last thing I was going to do was come in and take any money away from his contract."
J.J.'s respect for his brother's contract negotiations and desire to ensure T.J.'s financial interests remained intact were central to his choice.
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Steelers players Derek and TJ Watt pose for a photo while their brother, JJ, missed out on the family reunion.
Steelers Star Asked His Brother To Join Forces?
In a conversation with Dan Patrick, the host of "The Dan Patrick Show," T.J.'s perspective on the near-reunion was brought to the forefront. When asked by Patrick whether he had personally invited his future Hall of Fame brother to become a Steeler, T.J.'s response was both candid and sincere.
"No. That is one of those things that is just way above my pay grade. I don't have any say on who we bring in."
In the complex world of NFL team management and roster decisions, T.J. emphasized his position as a player rather than a decision-maker in the organization. His focus on playing the game he loves and his humility in the face of off-field decisions is a testament to his commitment to his craft, as well as his character.
Patrick challenged T.J., highlighting that he could have exerted some influence in the recruitment process. T.J.'s response was tinged with humor, a reflection of his down-to-earth personality.
"I didn't drop it in a suggestion box," he said with a laugh. "No, I never blatantly asked J.J. if he wanted to come and play. I think his career took his course, and my career is on my course, and they never were able to meet."
T.J.'s dominance on the field, J.J.'s status as a future Hall of Famer, and Derek's contributions as a fullback/special teamer made the potential lineup in the Steel City a force to be reckoned with. However, the NFL is a sophisticated ecological system, and decisions that impact rosters and teams are not made lightly. J.J.'s decision to respect his brother's contract negotiations was a sign of the unwavering bond between the siblings. While the Watt brothers may never share a field in the NFL donning the same jerseys, their mutual respect and support continue to be a source of inspiration and admiration for football enthusiasts.
TJ Watt Instagram
The Watt Brothers: TJ, JJ and Derek
The Steelers' roster may not boast all three Watt brothers, but the Watt legacy endures. T.J.'s humility and dedication to his craft, as well as J.J.'s unwavering support and respect for his younger brother, serve as a testament to the values that have shaped their extraordinary journeys in the world of professional football. While a Watt brother reunion in Pittsburgh may not have come to pass, the enduring connection and shared love for the game remain as strong as ever.
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