Steelers grab J.J. Watt's brother T.J. with 30th pick

The Pittsburgh Steelers have selected outside linebacker T.J. Watt out of Wisconsin with the 30th pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.

The younger brother of Houston Texans star J.J. Watt is smaller than his dominant sibling, but was as impactful a player at Wisconsin during his time with the Badgers.

The 6-foot-4, 252-pounder was a second-team All-American last season after posting 63 tackles and 11.5 sacks. He should immediately step in as a solid depth piece in a Steelers linebacker core that battled injuries last year.

All eyes in the Watt household will be on Houston at Christmas as the Texans and Steelers face off Dec. 25 for family bragging rights.

T.J. Watt Bio

Position: OLB
School: Wisconsin
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-4
Weight: 252 lbs.

Strengths

• Impressive athletic skill set displayed by his on-field versatility and confirmed with a stellar combine workout.
• Finished off Wisconsin career with 11.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss in just his second season as full-time defensive player.
• Unleashes several different pass-rush moves to create pressure and get into the backfield.
• The rare edge player who, in addition to getting after the quarterback, is effective when dropping into coverage.

Weaknesses

• Likely doesn't have the base strength to contribute as an every-down edge player and hold up against the run in a 4-3 front early on.
• Pass-rush game is limited to finesse rather than power.
• Past injuries to both knees will be a concern.

Combine Results