Steelers linebacker T.J. was fined $10,815 for his unnecessary roughness penalty during Pittsburgh’s Sunday Night Football win over Seattle. At the time, Watt got flagged for what looked like he was throwing punches while trying to stop Seahawks running back Alex Collins.
Watt claimed postgame that there was no malicious intent behind his actions and he was simply trying to dislodge the ball.
Here’s a video to refresh your memory of the incident.
TJ Watt looks ready for a title fight 🥊 https://t.co/X6vkPayPoP
— Action Network NFL (@ActionNetNFL) October 18, 2021
Despite his explanation, fans still took to social media to voice their opinion of what Watt did.
I joke, but I actually have a hard time blaming the refs.
I don't know anyone as aggressive at punching the ball out as TJ Watt … so much so that it DOES from a distance look like he's punching the ball carrier.#Steelers
— David X. Henry (@imau2fan) October 18, 2021
TJ Watt trying to force a fumble pic.twitter.com/qF8EHsSe3Y
— DJ Corrigan (@Corrigan_Tweets) October 18, 2021
Regardless of anyone’s opinion, the penalty was called and the NFL did decide to fine him. Time will now tell if any of that will persuade Watt to change his methods.
In addition to the win, Watt was also named AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance, which certainly overshadows the fine.