It feels like an eternity has passed, but just a few months ago, the Pittsburgh Steelers were engulfed in uncertainty. T.J. Watt and company looked dead in the water after a couple of bad losses. That led Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger to speak out multiple times, and he ripped into the team and what he perceived to be a failing culture under head coach Mike Tomlin.
Doubts loomed over various aspects, from the unsettled quarterback situation, which continues to linger, to speculations regarding Tomlin’s tenure with the Steelers.
However, the tumult quieted down as the Steelers surged, clinching victories and securing a playoff berth.
In the midst of it all, Watt found himself in Las Vegas during the Super Bowl festivities, momentarily detached from the external clamor. Yet, he couldn’t evade a reminder of one of the team’s most vocal critics.
Watt chose to fire back a bit at Roethlisberger.
“At the end of the day, it’s all about the guys in the locker room, and it’s hard for people on the outside to truly get a feel for what’s going on, on the inside.”
Caught in a delicate situation, Watt faced a challenging question. Undoubtedly, he didn’t want to undermine Roethlisberger, but his allegiance lies with his teammates who battle alongside him day in and day out.
Hopefully, the Steelers can put together a strong offseason. If they can do that, they could find their way back into the playoffs again in 2024. Watt will certainly be a big part of that hopeful equation.
