Joe Haden speaks out in defense of T.J. Watt, arguing that criticism over his performance, given his hefty contract, is unwarranted. Despite a less dominant season in 2025, where Watt recorded seven sacks due to a lung injury, Haden insists that his contributions go beyond just sack numbers. He urges critics to watch the tape, highlighting Watt's ability to force fumbles, make key interceptions, and excel in run defense. Haden believes that expectations for every season to mirror Watt's peak performance are unrealistic, yet emphasizes the need for Watt to recapture his high level of play moving forward.

By the Numbers
  • T.J. Watt finished the 2025 season with seven sacks.
  • Watt forced three fumbles, tying for top ten in the league.
  • He also had two interceptions and batted down eight passes.
State of Play
  • Watt's performance has been under scrutiny due to high expectations from his contract.
  • In 2025, he struggled to replicate his historic dominance, impacting fan perception.
  • Haden advocates for recognizing Watt’s overall defensive impact beyond sack totals.
What's Next

For T.J. Watt to justify his recent contract extension, he will need to return to form with a focus on achieving double-digit sacks in the upcoming seasons. Consistency in performance and making clutch plays will be crucial for him. The Steelers are counting on Watt to bounce back, reshaping the narrative around his contributions and reaffirming his elite status in the league.

Bottom Line

Despite criticism, T.J. Watt remains a pivotal player for the Steelers, and expectations should balance between his contractual value and performance realities. His capacity to deliver impactful plays, especially in critical moments, will determine his legacy and future success, not just raw sack numbers.