The Pittsburgh Steelers announced Tuesday that first-round draft pick T.J. Watt would be the starting right outside linebacker for the upcoming season.
After a fantastic junior season at Wisconsin, Watt was selected 30th overall in the NFL Draft, and the Steelers are impressed with the young pass rusher. Watt will have big shoes to fill, replacing five time Pro Bowler James Harrison on the edge. The 39-year-old Harrison will instead play a “relief” role this season according to Steelers outside linebacker coach Joey Porter.
During the NFL preseason, Watt accumulated 11 tackles and two sacks. Pittsburgh is a contender in the AFC and will hope Watt can have an impact anywhere near that of his older brother, J.J. With the athleticism and football IQ he possesses, the youngest Watt brother will certainly be a fun player to watch.
Watt will start in his first ever NFL game this Sunday when the Steelers travel to Cleveland for a division matchup against the Browns.