Ben Roethlisberger defends T.J. Watt amid criticism after Week 1
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 2:26 PM
Last updated Sep 16, 2026

Former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger defended T.J. Watt following speculation about his performance as Pittsburgh's edge rusher. Roethlisberger, on his podcast, rebuffed claims of Watt's decline after he made a game-changing interception returned for a touchdown in the season opener. Watt, noted for his ability to turn defensive plays into scoring opportunities, continues to be a standout player, dismissing offseason doubts. The commentary from Roethlisberger comes as discussions around Watt’s impact and rankings among elite defenders persist.
- •T.J. Watt returned an interception for a touchdown in Week 1.
- •Roethlisberger criticized offseason doubts about Watt's abilities.
- •Watt is recognized for altering game trajectories with defensive plays.
- •Ongoing discussions about Watt's elite status continue in media.
- 2:26 PMYahoo Sports — Ben Roethlisberger shuts down absurd T.J. Watt criticism after Week 1
"Former Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger dismissed critics claiming star edge rusher T.J. Watt was declining.
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