Former Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin discussed T.J. Watt’s competitive mindset and compared it with his own experience growing up as a younger brother.
Tomlin also referenced Watt’s relationship with his older brother, J.J. Watt, while discussing his competitive approach. He shared his thoughts in an Instagram post.
Former Steelers HC details T.J. Watt’s competitive mindset
Former Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has discussed T.J. Watt’s competitive mindset and compared it with his own experience growing up as a younger brother. In an Instagram post, Tomlin’s comments addressed how having successful older siblings can motivate athletes to work harder and establish their own identities. Meanwhile, T.J.’s wife also shared her thoughts regarding security concerns ahead of the next NFL game.
Tomlin also referenced basketball legend Michael Jordan, who grew up as a younger brother. He said younger siblings are often driven by competition within the family.
The comparison also applies to the Watt family. T.J.’s older brother, J.J. Watt, won the Associated Press NFL Defensive Player of the Year award three times, in 2012, 2014 and 2015. T.J. won the award in 2021. Tomlin pointed to the accomplishments of J.J. Watt while discussing T.J.’s competitive mindset.
Tomlin explained what he appreciates about T.J.’s approach to competition.
He Said: “Man, T.J., this is what I love about T.J. T.J. is an angry little brother. He is. I know that because I’m an angry little brother, too. I think it’s something about being a little brother.”
Tomlin first got a closer look at T.J.’s approach to football before the 2017 NFL Draft. The night before Watt’s pro day in Madison, Wisconsin, the two had dinner together. Rather than focusing on general conversation, Watt wanted to talk about football. He asked Tomlin about the pass-rush moves used by former Steelers linebacker James Harrison.
In October 2024, Tomlin praised Watt’s talent, work habits, football knowledge, determination and focus. He said Watt’s success was not a surprise given those qualities and the way he approached his preparation.
Tomlin also discussed Watt’s film study in October 2023. He said Watt studied game footage extensively and was among the team’s most dedicated players when it came to preparation. As Watt gained experience, his film study became more focused and efficient.
J.J. has also played an important role in his younger brother’s development, providing advice and support during different stages of his career, including during a position transition. T.J. has credited growing up with J.J. and their other brother, Derek Watt, with helping shape his competitive mindset.
T.J. has spoken about being known as J.J.’s younger brother early in his career and said he wanted recognition for his preparation and performance.
The Steelers selected T.J. with the 30th overall pick in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. In 2021, he recorded 22.5 sacks, tying the NFL’s then-single-season sack record, and won the Defensive Player of the Year award.
Watt’s 2021 Defensive Player of the Year season marked a significant milestone in a career that began with the Steelers selecting him in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
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