American · Nacogdoches, USA · Born 11 October 1994T.J. Watt is an elite Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker who has repeatedly led the NFL in sacks and won multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards.
Trent Jordan "T.J." Watt was born on 11 October 1994 in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, the youngest of three sons of Connie, vice president of an inspections company, and John Watt, a firefighter for over 25 years. His older brothers, J.J. and Derek, both also became NFL players, with J.J. going on to win three Defensive Player of the Year awards with the Houston Texans. Watt attended Pewaukee High School as a three-star recruit before playing college football at Wisconsin, where he played alongside brother Derek, and the Pittsburgh Steelers selected him in the first round, 30th overall, of the 2017 NFL Draft. Watt developed into one of the most dominant pass rushers in the league, winning the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 2021 and leading the league in sacks in three separate seasons, a rare feat matched by few players in NFL history. Watt has earned eight consecutive Pro Bowl selections and four first-team All-Pro honours, surpassing his brother J.J.'s career sack total during the 2025 season, and has spoken candidly about the emotional challenges of growing up in his older brothers' shadow, continuing to anchor Pittsburgh's defence as one of the league's most feared edge rushers.
Dominant Pittsburgh Steelers pass rusher, multiple-time NFL sack leader
How They Played
Explosive pass rusher with exceptional bend, hand technique, and relentless motor
Lasting Impact
One of the most dominant pass rushers in NFL history, continuing the Watt family football dynasty
Career Honours
- 2x NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- NFL sacks leader (multiple seasons)
- 6x Pro Bowl
- 4x First-team All-Pro
| Team | Period | Games | Jersey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 2017–2024 | 135 | #90 |
American Athletes