Steelers Star Shares Awe for T.J. Watt After One Year at Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA – June 11, 2025

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie tackle Troy Fautanu expressed deep admiration for teammate T.J. Watt, highlighting the star edge rusher’s unmatched work ethic after their first year together. Fautanu, a 2024 first-round pick, marveled at Watt’s dedication during an interview on 93.7 The Fan.

“T.J.’s always the first at Acrisure Stadium,” Fautanu said. “Morning workouts start at 9 a.m. I’d arrive at 8, and Watt’s already there. One day, I got in at 7:30—still there. So, I thought, ‘I’ll outdo him.’ Showed up at 6 one morning, and guess what? T.J. was already grinding.”

Watt, a three-time sack leader and 2021 Defensive Player of the Year, set the tone for Pittsburgh’s 10-7 2024 campaign with 11.5 sacks and an NFL-high six forced fumbles. His relentless drive left an impression on Fautanu, who started 14 games at left tackle as a rookie.

Fautanu’s comments come amid Watt’s ongoing contract holdout, as he skipped mandatory minicamp to push for an extension beyond his $112 million deal, per ESPN. Despite tensions, Fautanu praised Watt’s leadership, noting his mentorship during OTAs.

Steeler Nation buzzed on X: “T.J.’s work ethic is unreal!” one fan tweeted. Another added, “Fautanu learning from the best—future’s bright!” Watt’s grind, paired with Fautanu’s potential, fuels hope for a playoff win, absent since 2016.

Pittsburgh’s offensive line, bolstered by Fautanu and Zach Frazier, allowed just 24 sacks in 2024, per NFL.com. Watt’s defensive prowess, with a PFF grade of 92.3, remains the backbone of a sixth-ranked defense.

Fautanu, a Washington alum, credits Watt for shaping his rookie mindset. “Seeing T.J. every day pushes me to match that intensity,” he said. With Aaron Rodgers now at quarterback, Pittsburgh’s championship aspirations hinge on stars like Watt.

As training camp looms, Watt’s influence endures, inspiring rookies like Fautanu. Can this dynamic duo lead the Steelers to Super Bowl glory? Stay tuned to ESPN for updates on this inspiring story.