T.J. Watt Meets Pittsburgh Steelers Legend Dick LeBeau
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ strong defensive display against the Indianapolis Colts made Dick LeBeau proud and provided a special moment for T.J. Watt. The two met in person for the first time during the 20th anniversary celebration of the Steelers’ 2005 Super Bowl XL victory.
A Long-Awaited Meeting
LeBeau returned to Pittsburgh as part of the anniversary events, giving him and Watt the opportunity to finally introduce themselves.
“It took nine years, but I’m glad,” Watt shared in an 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.”
Legendary Presence at the Game
LeBeau was one of several Steelers legends honored during Week 10, with a halftime tribute on the field. Other notable attendees included quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, running back Jerome Bettis, and defensive lineman Aaron Smith.
Crossing Paths in Different Eras
Watt and LeBeau’s careers just missed overlapping directly. LeBeau’s last year with the Steelers was 2014, while Watt entered the NFL in 2017. During LeBeau’s final year coaching as Tennessee Titans’ defensive coordinator, his team faced Pittsburgh, with Watt recording two tackles in a 40-17 victory, but they didn’t reconnect 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.”
Author's Summary
T.J. Watt finally met Steelers legend Dick LeBeau after nearly a decade, during the 20th anniversary of the team's Super Bowl XL win, highlighting the strong bonds within Steelers' history.
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