TJ Watt sacks Will Levis without a helmet on Thursday Night Football

Helmet or not, TJ Watt is going to get to the quarterback. The Steelers linebacker made an incredible play on Thursday Night Football, sacking Titans quarterback Will Levis after getting his lid knocked to the ground.

Late in the first quarter, Tennessee was threatening to score on a 3rd-and-5 from the 10-yard line. Watt brought the pressure, and though Levis avoided it for a bit, eventually the star pass-rusher was able to notch the sack.

Before he got to Levis though, Watt’s helmet was knocked off. It clearly didn’t slow down the star. The play forced Tennessee into a field goal.

TJ Watt is a menace. No helmet, who cares. pic.twitter.com/OnRBWxhtNv

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 3, 2023

Watt has been a problem for several offenses through Pittsburgh’s first seven games. He entered Thursday’s game with 18 total tackles, including 13 solo stops. He’s racked up 8.5 sacks, recovered three fumbles, forced two fumbles and recorded an interception.

Watt already earned the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2021 and appears to be well on his way to another honor with these types of numbers.

TJ Watt joined elite company recently

Watt joined elite company with his performance early this season. According to NFL Research, the Steelers linebacker has now accomplished something only one other player has achieved. That player? Lawrence Taylor.

Per the league’s research team, Watt and Taylor are the only players in NFL history to record at least seven interceptions and 70 sacks in their first seven seasons.

Watt hauled in his seventh career pick in Pittsburgh’s 24-17 win over the Rams. The linebacker has piled up 85.5 career sacks, as well.

Through his first seven years in the NFL, Taylor racked up 83 sacks and eight interceptions. Watt has already surpassed the former Giants star’s sack total and, with 11 games remaining, as an opportunity to exceed the interception total, as well.

Watt has earned five Pro Bowl selections over the course of his career and three first-team All-Pro honors. He is regularly considered one of the top defensive players in the league.