JJ Watt sends message to TJ following Defensive Player of the Year award
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker TJ Watt won the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year award, and got a chance to share a special moment with his brother on stage. JJ Watt – a three-time DPOY – received the honor of naming his brother TJ the latest award winner in the family.
JJ Watt shared his pride in TJ on social media, along with a video of the special DPOY award moment between brothers.
“Some moments are just special,” JJ Watt posted. “Couldn’t be more proud of you TJ Watt. Truly.”
In the video, which includes an extended hug between the Watt brothers, TJ Watt gives thanks to his entire family for helping him reach his goals.
“Wow. I just want to thank my parents. My mom and my dad,” TJ Watt said during his DPOY acceptance speech Friday night. “My brothers Derek and JJ. You guys have just pushed me so much to be able to get me to this point. My beautiful fiancé Danny for being my number one supporter. My teammates and coaches back home in Pittsburgh, this truly is not possible without you guys that put in so much work that goes unnoticed. That goes for the guys that put in work in the cafeterias, the guys that are taping ankles — this one is for all you guys.”
He also gave a nod to his brother’s success, mentioning all his time spent in the audience of the NFL’s award show.
“I grew up coming to this awards show. I think I’ve been about four or five times, never came home with hardware,” Watt said. “But every time I left more motivated than the time I got here and I promise this only motivates me more, so thank you.”
More on TJ Watt
After Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher TJ Watt was named as the NFL’s 2021 Defensive Player of the Year, his name will now be etched in the Steeler’s history books as the seventh Steelers defender to ever win the award.
Watt joins Troy Polamalu (2010), James Harrison (2008), Rod Woodson (1993), Jack Lambert (1976), Mel Blount (1975) and Joe Greene (1972, 1974) as the only Steelers to win the prestigious award.
Watt had a season to remember, tying Michael Strahan’s single season sack record with 22.5, making him a borderline lock to win Defensive Player of the Year. Especially when Watt did it in just 15 games after missing two due to injury.
In addition, Watt tallied 64 tackles, five forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries with seven pass deflections over 15 games. His 21 tackles for loss and 39 quarterback hits also ranked among the league’s best.