CBS Sports: Myles Garrett, a star for the Browns, asked that T.J. Watt, a favorite of the Steelers, “apologize” to him after……
By demonstrating that there is still love between the NFL’s top pass rushers, Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt are giving the bitter rivalry between the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers new significance.
Before Thursday night’s game between the AFC North rivals at Huntington Bank Field, Garrett raised the ante, seemingly still resenting Watt’s alleged lack of consideration for his 2023 Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year victory.
Since the Steelers outside linebacker missed the NFL Honors Show after finishing second to the Browns edge rusher in AP voting and posting “nothing I’m not used to” on social media, Garrett claimed he hasn’t spoken to Watt.
According to Cleveland.com, Garrett stated on Tuesday, “No, he didn’t say nothing to me.” “When I see him, he’s going to have to apologize.”
During the previous season, Watt outperformed Garrett in nearly every defensive measure. Both players had four forced fumbles, but Watt had more sacks (19–14), tackles (68–42), passes defensed (eight to three), and fumble recoveries (three to one). In addition to the Browns leading the NFL in overall defense, Garrett had superior pressure and pass-rush win rates.
Watt, the 2021 Defensive Player of the Year winner, however, placed in the top three of the voting for the third consecutive year without winning the prize. Additionally, he placed third behind New England Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore in 2019 and second behind Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald in 20.
“The trophy being in my house has never caused me any complaints, and vice versa. Garrett told reporters in Cleveland that he shouldn’t be conflicted about it. “We will simply engage in the game. Both T.J. and I don’t play against each other. We’ll make plans to go out and accomplish our goals, win the game, and dominate defense. This year, it is up for grabs. The best man will prevail.
When Garrett and Watt are both in the lineup, the Steelers lead the Browns 7-2-1. Watt has a statistical advantage even though both have been disruptive forces: Watt has recorded 64 tackles (45 solo), 17 sacks, 21 tackles for loss, 31 quarterback hits, two fumble recoveries, and an interception in 12 games against Cleveland. Garrett has 36 tackles (26 solo), nine sacks (two of which resulted in forced fumbles), 10 tackles for loss, 19 quarterback hits, and three forced fumbles in 12 games against the Steelers.
“We’re not really buddies, in my opinion. We’re cordial, I’d say,” Garrett added. I hold him and his brother (J.J.) in the highest regard. Both of them have been outstanding leaders and supporters of this game. Although nothing truly changes, we’ll see what occurs on Thursday.
Additionally, Watt has a small advantage in total sacks since the Browns selected Garrett first overall in 2018. Watt has 97 sacks throughout that time, compared to Garrett’s 95 1/2. Watt has 104 career sacks, including his seven as a rookie. When asked about Garrett, but not specifically about his remarks, Watt gave the expected response by concentrating on the wider issue.
Watt declared, “I respect everyone in this league.” He is undoubtedly a man who has long been one of the league’s best pass rushers. I don’t directly compete with him, though. I just want the Pittsburgh Steelers to win since it’s our team against theirs.
