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While individual accolades in the NFL are not also considered tag team championships, when players are recognized for their outstanding performance, it is still outstanding. While many Steelers fans believe outside linebacker TJ Watt should receive the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, the odds of being named the league-wide best defensive player are much more difficult if the player doesn’t. is not considered the best defender in their conference. On Thursday, it was announced that TJ Watt has received the 101 AFC Defensive Player of the Year awards for the 2020 season.
The award is named because of the “Committee of 101,” which is made up of 101 national sports writers who cover the NFL and vote on the awards. Created in 1969, the committee rewards an offensive player of the year, a defensive player of the year and a coach of the year for each conference. By winning the AFC Defensive Player of the Year award, Watt has put himself in excellent company vis-à-vis the Pittsburgh Steelers. This by Teresa Varley of Steelers.com:
Watt joins an illustrious list of alumni #Steelists who won the award, including Troy Polamalu (2010), James Harrison (2008), Carnell Lake (1997), Greg Lloyd (1994), Rod Woodson (1993), Jack Lambert (1976), Mel Blount (1975) and Joe Greene (1972, 1974). https://t.co/M0TA4R5geb
– Teresa Varley (@Teresa_Varley) January 28, 2021
With an NFL leading 15.0 sacks in 2020, Watt also led the NFL with 23 tackles for a loss. By adding two forced fumbles, seven defensive passes and one intersection in 15 games, TJ Watt solidified his candidacy for the NFL Defensive Player of the Year by winning the honor for the AFC.
TJ Watt also joins his brother in receiving the honor as JJ Watt was the AFC Defensive Player of the Year four times in 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2018.
Although Troy Polamalu won the AFC Defensive Player of the Year in 2010, the most recent player to win any of the awards for the Pittsburgh Steelers was Antonio Brown in 2017 as AFC Offensive Player of the Year. It was Brown’s second prize as he was co-winner in 2014 with running back Le’Veon Bell. The only other Pittsburgh Steelers member to win the AFC Offensive Player of the Year award was Kordell Stewart in 2001.
When it comes to AFC Coach of the Year, the only time a Steelers head coach has been selected was in 1994, when Bill Cowher won the award.
Kudos to TJ Watt for being the AFC Defensive Player of the Year, and the entire Steelers Nation continues to cheer you on for the NFL Defensive Player of the Year which will be announced on Saturday February 6th.
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