J.J. Watt to Steelers Picking Up Steam
PITTSBURGH -- J.J. Watt made plenty of Pittsburgh Steelers fans day when he and head coach Mike Tomlin chatted on social media about coming in for a visit. The future Hall of Famer remains retired, but if anyone in the league can convince a player to suit up, Tomlin is believed to be that coach - and playing with his brother probably helps the conversation.
One retired Steeler is warning Watt that, even if Tomlin doesn't do any convincing during Watt's visit to Pittsburgh, the team might come calling during the season.
During the latest episode of Bleav in Steelers Podcast, former cornerback Ike Taylor told Watt to "stay in shape," just in case.
"You might get that phone call throughout the year," Taylor said. "Go on and stay in shape. Just in case."
Taylor likely got his own calls after retirement, but Watt's case is intriguing. Coming to Pittsburgh would mean he gets the opportunity to play alongside his younger brother T.J. and join forces as a Defensive Player of the Year brother tandem for the Steelers.
"Picture the two Watts on both ends of the stick coming off the edge," Taylor said. "J.J., a future Hall of Famer, put your helmet on alongside your brother, T.J., trying to make a playoff push. I'm just saying."
The Steelers added Nick Herbig as their backup outside linebacker in the NFL Draft, but that probably wouldn't stop them from signing Watt if given the opportunity.
Who knows when that visit to UPMC Rooney Sports Complex will happen, but when it does, maybe Watt walks out of Pittsburgh with an itch to join the Steelers.
At this point, the conversation is picking up steam. And the more everyone talks about it, the more Watt is likely starting to, at least, entertain the possibility.
Make sure you bookmark All Steelers for the latest news, exclusive interviews, film breakdowns and so much more!
Vince Williams Has an Idea for Kendrick Green
Steelers Given No Shot to Win AFC North
Mike Tomlin, J.J. Watt Set Up Steelers Visit
How Andy Weidl Found Keeanu Benton and Nick Herbig