"I Like TJ Watt A Lot": Steelers Star Predicted To Break NFL Sack Record In 2026 By NFL Network Host

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense underperformed season after season under the previous regime. It didn't seem to matter how much money was invested into the unit or how many stars were scattered across every level. Former defensive coordinator Teryl Austin and former head coach Mike Tomlin simply couldn't put it all together.

Now, it's up to new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, who was hired by new head coach Mike McCarthy, to take ownership of the defense. Much has been made about Graham's ability to limit big plays despite lacking significant financial backing during his time with the Las Vegas Raiders. That won't be the case in Pittsburgh, where edge rushers TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith form one of the best pass-rushing duos in the NFL. Nick Herbig is also expected to see an increased role, creating what could arguably become one of the league's most lethal pass-rushing rooms if Graham can coach the group to its full potential.

With Myles Garrett breaking the sack record previously shared by Watt and Michael Strahan with 22.5 sacks, Garrett's 23-sack campaign in 2025 now stands alone atop the record books. Many appear to be sleeping on Watt, believing he's past his prime, but former NFL player and current analyst Manti Teʻo isn't one of them. During a segment on NFL Network's Good Morning Football on Wednesday, Teʻo made a bold prediction regarding Watt's outlook for the 2026 season.

"History will tell you that when Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy get together, they score a lot of points on offense. History also tells you that when TJ Watt is lined up out there, TJ Watt is gonna get a lot of sacks," Te'o said on Wednesday. "This guy led the league in sacks three times already."

Te'o pointed to Watt's proven consistency as one of the most dominant pass rushers of the last decade, noting that even as schemes and personnel around him have changed, his production has remained elite. He also emphasized how the new defensive structure in Pittsburgh could put Watt in even better positions to succeed. 

With expectations rising and comparisons to Garrett continuing to dominate the conversation, Te'o believes the stage is set for another big year from the Steelers star.

"TJ Watt is gonna give Myles Garrett a run for his money," Te'o said. "And as far as being the sack leader, I wouldn't be surprised if all three of those guys are gonna be competing for who can lead the Pittsburgh Steelers in sacks. I got TJ Watt. I like TJ Watt a lot."

Even though Garrett is no longer in the AFC North following his trade to the Los Angeles Rams, the comparisons between him, Watt, and the rest of the NFL’s top pass rushers are expected to continue.

Steelers' Watt Seeking Redemption In 2026 Season

It’s no secret that Watt is looking to remind the NFL world of his greatness. Toward the end of the 2024 season, he wasn’t quite his usual self as he played through injury, and then in 2025, down the stretch, the organization’s issues further limited his impact. Watt wasn’t able to fully get back to 100% toward the end of either of those seasons. 

Now, with a new staff in place, there’s optimism that Watt will be featured in more creative defensive schemes and positioned for another Defensive Player of the Year–type campaign. That’s why Te'o believes Watt will dominate in 2026.

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