8. T.J. Watt, LB – Pittsburgh Steelers
Watt was the 46th-best EDGE defender in 2017, according to Pro Football Focus, which classifies him as an average player at his position.
Watt had a lot of hype to live up to, thanks to big brother J.J. The Steelers took Watt at the end of the first round and plugged him in immediately as a pass rusher. He finished his rookie campaign with seven sacks and one interception, helping bring the Steelers defense back to a respectable rank and a playoff appearance.
In his first game as a Steeler against the Browns, Watt tallied two sacks and an interception to help his team win. It was evident immediately that Watt was a quality player in the NFL.
At Wisconsin
Watt treated his first action as a Badger the same way he did as a Steeler. He originally committed to Wisconsin as a tight end, but made the same transition his older brother J.J. made – to the side of the ball that harasses opposing quarterbacks. Watt saw some playing time in 2015 as a sophomore, but it was his junior season that made him the player he is today. In 2016, Watt recorded 11.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss. His lone interception came against Purdue.
Watt should continue to be a focal point for the Steelers defense moving forward. He’s young and athletic, and has a nose for finding big plays. I expect big things from Watt as his career unfolds.