Pro Football Writers Association names 2021 NFL Defensive MVP
As the NFL Playoffs move forward, the Pro Football Writers Association continues announcing its regular season honors for 2021. The next award up in the series is Defensive Player of the Year, which was awarded to Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker TJ Watt.
Throughout the season, TJ Watt starred on the defensive side of the ball for the Pittsburgh Steelers, bringing him into the Defensive Player of the Year and MVP conversation. While the offense struggled, Watt has battled through injuries on his way to an NFL record-tying 22.5 sacks. He matched Michael Strahan’s 2001 mark in the final week.
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.
The former Wisconsin star – and brother of three-time Defensive Player of the Year JJ Watt – beat out perineal winner Aaron Donald, who starred again for the Los Angeles Rams on the defensive line. He also beat the pair of Dallas Cowboys defensive stars Trevon Diggs and Micah Parsons, who broke out as two of the NFL’s best young defenders during the 2021 season.
NFL reviews potential TJ Watt record
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ inquiry on a potential record-breaking TJ Watt sack was reviewed, but the additional statistic was not granted, according to The Action Network’s Darren Rovell. Watt’s official season sack total sits at 22.5, tying the NFL record set by Michael Strahan in 2001.
As Watt chased history on the final weekend, a bad snap covered by Baltimore Ravens quarterback Tyler Huntley caused controversy. Under most circumstances that would qualify as an aborted play and not be eligible for a sack. However, the Steelers argue that Huntley’s attempt to get back on his feet after covering the ball make him a passer again before Watt collides and knocks the ball loose on a potential record-breaking play.
The Elias Sports Bureau handled the process after the conclusion of Week 18 action. Not only did the sack or tackle for loss debate hold importance in the NFL and Steelers record books, but it has also brought Las Vegas sportsbooks to a halt. According to The Action Network, BetMGM had not settled any bets on TJ Watt’s potential record-breaking sack in anticipation of the Steelers’ review on Sunday, which could have changed the outcome for many bettors on either side.
Darren Rovell also noted that the betting public was “largely” in favor of Watt breaking the record. However, that bet did not pay out.