T.J. Watt named AFC Defensive Player of the Week

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 13: T.J. Watt #90 of the Pittsburgh Steelers takes the field prior to a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Acrisure Stadium on September 13, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Lauren Leigh Bacho/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It's hardly a surprise, but after a Week 1 against the Falcons where Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt recorded two sacks, a pick six, an additional tackle for loss and four total tackles, he was named the AFC's Defensive Player of the Week.

WHO ELSE

Congrats to @_TJWatt on being named AFC Defensive Player of the Week!

: https://t.co/t6r2rwm1Ljpic.twitter.com/2B7dKjGksG

- Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) September 16, 2026

While only one week of games has transpired, Watt is currently tied for the NFL sack lead, interception lead, defensive touchdown lead and tackles for loss lead.

According to Steelers.com, this marks Watt's ninth such award over his career, tying him with Chris Doleman, Bruce Smith and Lawrence Taylor for the most all-time over a career.

Watt last won a Defensive Player of the Week award in Week 8 of 2024, when he recorded two sacks, seven total tackles, and forced and recovered a fumble in a win over the Giants.

Now 31, Watt entered the 2026 season on the heels of a seven-sack 2025 - a down year by his standards. However, Pittsburgh's highest-paid player showed he still has plenty of gas in the tank after an explosive season debut.