Steelers 31-Year-Old Linebacker Earns Praise from Aaron Rodgers Prior to Week Two Game

In their season opener, linebacker TJ Watt gave the Steelers exactly what they needed to defeat the Atlanta Falcons. He intercepted a pass from Falcons quarterback Cooper Rush and ran it 35 yards for a touchdown. This gave the Steelers a 20-10 lead. They went on to win 20-13. Watt also recorded two sacks and three tackles for a loss.

The Steelers’ star edge rusher earned praise from Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The four-time NFL MVP remarked, “Unbelievable.” He explained, “We were just talking about, literally seconds before, how great of a game he was having and what an impact he’s had. We were laughing about something that happened in practice this week involving him, and then that happens. Then he falls down and gets up, and I’m thinking they’re just running off because he got tagged off. I didn’t realize he even scored. What an incredible, incredible play.”

The 31-year-old showed remarkable awareness and instincts throughout the offseason, and he translated that into a live-game environment. Watt recognized the screen and made sure he was positioned to intercept Rush's pass. Rodgers shared his thoughts about this amazing ability, saying, “How do you even think about that? He’s done that a few times, too. He gets that hand on that football over the last couple of years.” The veteran quarterback added, “He has an uncanny ability to get his hands there, and so does Cam Heyward.”

The seasoned signal-caller praised the seven-time Pro Bowler for his leadership abilities both on and off the field. “TJ has just been on a different level this year,” the future Hall of Famer observed. “Throughout the entire training camp, I have seen his leadership be at an all-time high. He gave a great, passionate speech, and for anybody who hasn’t seen it before, you can’t help but feel inspired. What a game,” said Rodgers.

Watt reinforced his status as an elite player in the Steelers’ Week One victory over the Falcons. His performance earned him AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. The day was historic for the Steelers’ defensive leader, marking his 10th career interception. The game saw his career sack total increase to 117. Watt joined Hall of Famer Julius Peppers as the only two players to record 100+ sacks and 10+ interceptions since 1982. Pittsburgh’s defensive game-wrecker is poised to have an excellent season in 2026.