It Took T.J. Watt Nine Years To Meet A Pittsburgh Steelers Legend
T.J. Watt and the Pittsburgh Steelers’ aggressive defense against the Indianapolis Colts made Dick LeBeau proud. This game marked the first time the two met in person.
LeBeau returned to Pittsburgh to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the 2005 Super Bowl XL winning team, which finally gave him and Watt the chance to introduce themselves.
“It took nine years, but I’m glad,” Watt said in a weekly interview with WMBS’ George Von Benko. “I mean, obviously he’s a busy guy, but to be able to meet the legend himself was very surreal.”
LeBeau was among many Steelers honored during halftime of the Week 10 game. Other notable alumni attending included quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, running back Jerome Bettis, and defensive lineman Aaron Smith.
LeBeau and Watt’s careers just missed crossing paths. LeBeau’s last year with Pittsburgh was 2014, while Watt entered the NFL in 2017. In 2014, LeBeau was the Tennessee Titans’ defensive coordinator when Pittsburgh faced Tennessee; Watt recorded two tackles in the 40-17 Steelers victory, but they didn’t connect after the game.
“Anytime those guys come back, it’s awesome,” Watt said. “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.”
The reunion highlighted the deep bond among Steelers legends and current players, bridging eras of the team’s storied history.
Author's summary: After nearly a decade, T.J. Watt finally met Steelers legend Dick LeBeau during the 20th anniversary of the 2005 Super Bowl team, celebrating their shared legacy and tight-knit community.