NFL Draft News & Analysis

Steelers go defense late in 1st, select Edge T.J. Watt

at Lambeau Field on September 3, 2016 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

  • The Pittsburgh Steelers spent the 30th overall pick on Wisconsin edge defender T.J. Watt to bolster an edge rotation still hugely dependent on James Harrison.
  • Watt saved his impact for crucial situations, ranking sixth in the class in fourth-quarter and third-down pass-rush productivity.
  • Overall, Watt ranked sixth in the class in pass-rush productivity (16.4 percent).
  • He’s an excellent fit as a stand-up outside linebacker in the Steelers’ odd front, ranking first in the class in pass-rush productivity from a three-point stance.
  • Watt is also far from one-dimensional, earning a grade of 80.0 against the run.

T.J. Watt

Safety worth way more than 2 points. Help protect your family with fast, free will.
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