Another year without that DPOY hardware
Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt was named one of five finalists for 2024 AP Defensive Player of the Year… but once again, he’s walked away without the hardware. Denver Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II, instead, won his first Defensive Player of the Year award — a 3x Pro Bowler and 2x All-Pro at the age of 24.
Though Surtain has developed a reputation as one of the league’s premiere lock-down cornerbacks, there was still a lack of a clear standout for DPOY in 2024 in comparison to years past.
Despite being an absolute game-wrecker, even at his worst, Watt’s denial of the award can hardly be considered a snub following a campaign largely considered a disappointing one in comparison to his previous seasons.
Despite playing 17 regular-season games for the second consecutive season, Watt registered just 11.5 sacks on the year — the third-fewest he’s had in a single season. That 11.5 sack total ranks ahead of only his rookie season (7.0) and 2022 campaign (5.5), where he played just 10 games. His six forced fumbles did lead the NFL, with another two fumble recoveries and 61 tackles (19 TFL).
Frankly, it was surprising to see the former Wisconsin Badger make it to the list of finalists when compared to his 2023 campaign — a year we could certainly have considered his miss on DPOY a snub. Despite leading the league with 19.0 sacks, adding 19 TFL, 4 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries (1 fumble recovery TD) and an interception, the award instead went to AFC North Rival DE Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns.
Welp… there’s always next year.