Wisconsin legend T.J. Watt is no stranger to the history books.
During the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 13-6 victory over the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Watt leapfrogged future Hall of Fame defensive tackle Aaron Donald for the fourth-most sacks through the first eight seasons of a career among any player since 1982.
Reggie White, arguably the greatest defender in NFL history, owns the No. 1 spot on the list with a staggering 124 sacks during his first eight seasons. 2009 Hall of Fame inductee Demarcus Ware lands at No. 2 with 111 sacks and storied NFL journeyman Jared Allen is at No. 3 on the list with 105 sacks.
Through just two games of his eighth NFL campaign, Watt’s sack total is up to 98.5. If he replicates his seasonal output from a season ago, he will pass both Ware and Allen for sole possession of No. 2 on the star-studded record sheet.
The 29-year-old finished Sunday’s win with three total tackles, one sack and one pass deflection. A week ago, he posted four tackles, one sack and one fumble recovery against Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons.
It’s the sort of company we call ELITE @_TJWatt @steelers pic.twitter.com/94QfyUTEJa
— NFL (@NFL) September 15, 2024
The Steelers, supercharged by Watt’s presence at outside linebacker, have allowed just 16 points this season. If the team can manage to sneak into the playoffs, the six-time Pro Bowl selection and four-time All-Pro would emerge as a front-runner to earn his second Defensive Player of the Year award.