Pittsburgh Steelers OLB TJ Watt is 13.5 sacks away from his brother JJ’s career total of 114.5, and barring something unforeseen, it’s a number that Watt will beat. While this may give him bragging rights in the family, TJ said in an interview with ESPN’s Hannah Storm that his brother helped him prolong his career and that JJ has a lot to live up to compared to TJ he could brag

“He has a lot of things to brag about in front of me. He’s had a hell of a career and of course had some injuries throughout his career, but there’s nothing hanging over anyone’s head. “I’m just so happy that he wants to help me extend my career and teach me the things that he thinks I did wrong that could help me get better in training and in the offseason,” he said.

TJ said his offseason workouts now focus on knee, ankle and hip mobility rather than weight and strength training.

J.J’s career has been plagued by injuries at times, and TJ has also been hit by the injury bug, as he missed significant time in 2022 and also missed the playoff game in Pittsburgh last season due to injuries. Whether it’s just a matter of personal preference or injury prevention, TJ focuses more on flexibility and mobility than strength. He said strength training doesn’t necessarily help make him a “better football player,” and while he still wants to get stronger, it’s less important.

This may have been something JJ taught him to help him prolong his career and keep his body in shape in his 30s. And while TJ may surpass his brother’s sack total, JJ still has more Defensive Player of the Year awards and playoff wins to his name. TJ could certainly add more DPOY awards to his tally, but the playoff wins were hard to come by. This is the season where the Steelers need to show they can win in the playoffs.

At 5-2 and in sole possession of first place in the AFC North heading into tonight’s Monday Night Football matchup, the Steelers are in a good position to make the playoffs. A postseason win will be of utmost importance and will certainly enrich Watt’s legacy.

It’s rare to have someone so close who has had the same experiences and can help a man reach a higher level, but for TJ, having JJ in his ear to give advice or just support is certainly a benefit offers. TJ Watt said JJ Watt is the only person “who really knows how I see the game,” and that he understands what matters gives TJ a unique support system on and off the field. This will help him continue to grow as a player.