It Took T.J. Watt Nine Years To Meet A Pittsburgh Steelers Legend
T.J. Watt and the Pittsburgh Steelers' strong defensive showing against the Indianapolis Colts made Dick LeBeau proud. The game offered the first chance for the two to meet in person.
LeBeau returned to Pittsburgh for the 20th anniversary celebration of the 2005 Super Bowl XL winning team, where he and Watt finally introduced 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 present for the Week 10 game, receiving an honor on the field at halftime. Other notable reunions included QB Ben Roethlisberger, RB Jerome Bettis, and DL Aaron Smith.
Although LeBeau and Watt missed crossing paths during their playing and coaching careers, their timelines nearly overlapped. LeBeau’s last season with Pittsburgh was 2014, while Watt entered the NFL in 2017. In 2014, LeBeau served as the Tennessee Titans’ defensive coordinator, the same year Pittsburgh defeated Tennessee 40-17, with Watt recording two tackles. However, they did not connect after that 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.”
Summary
T.J. Watt finally met Steelers legend Dick LeBeau after nine years, celebrating their shared connection during the 20th anniversary of Pittsburgh’s 2005 Super Bowl team.
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