It Took T.J. Watt Nine Years To Meet A Pittsburgh Steelers Legend
T.J. Watt and the Pittsburgh Steelers’ dominant defensive effort against the Indianapolis Colts made Dick LeBeau proud. The game also marked the first time the two met in person.
LeBeau returned to Pittsburgh for the 20th anniversary celebration of the 2005 Super Bowl XL championship team, allowing him and Watt to finally introduce themselves.
“It took nine years, but I’m glad. I mean, obviously he’s a busy guy, but to be able to meet the legend himself was very surreal.” – T.J. Watt, in a weekly interview with WMBS’ George Von Benko
LeBeau was one of many Steelers legends attending the Week 10 game and was honored on the field during halftime. Other notable attendees included quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, running back Jerome Bettis, and defensive lineman Aaron Smith.
As coach and player, LeBeau and Watt just missed overlapping seasons. LeBeau’s last year with Pittsburgh was 2014, while Watt entered the NFL in 2017. In 2017, LeBeau served as the Tennessee Titans’ defensive coordinator. Pittsburgh played Tennessee that season, with Watt recording two tackles in a 40-17 Steelers win, but they didn’t connect after the game.
“Anytime those guys come back, it’s awesome. And to be able to be recognized for their Super Bowl is awesome. To just see all those guys back in town and see how tight-knit they are.” – T.J. Watt
Summary
T.J. Watt finally met Steelers legend Dick LeBeau after nine years, celebrating a shared history tied to Pittsburgh's 2005 Super Bowl championship and a deep respect for the team’s legacy.