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 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 winning team, finally allowing them to introduce themselves after nearly a decade.
“It took nine years, but I’m glad,” Watt said during 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 several Steelers attending the Week 10 game and was honored on the field during halftime. Other notable former players present included quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, running back Jerome Bettis, and defensive lineman Aaron Smith.
LeBeau and Watt's careers just missed overlapping in Pittsburgh. LeBeau’s final season as a Steeler was in 2014, while Watt joined the NFL in 2017. That same year, LeBeau was the Tennessee Titans’ defensive coordinator when Pittsburgh defeated Tennessee 40-17, with Watt recording two tackles, but they did not 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.”
This meeting highlighted the respect between generations of Steelers legends and underscored the strong community around the team.
Summary: T.J. Watt finally met Steelers legend Dick LeBeau after nine years, reflecting the deep bond among Pittsburgh's football greats and their ongoing legacy.