Debate Surrounds T.J. Watt’s Hall of Fame Chances Ahead of 2025 Season

Pittsburgh, PA – As discussions about T.J. Watt‘s contract situation heat up, so do debates over his Hall of Fame credentials. The Steelers linebacker has consistently proven his elite status on the field, with over 100 career sacks and recognition as 2021’s Defensive Player of the Year. Whether he’ll be a first-ballot inductee remains a topic of speculation.

Watt, 28, has established himself as a dominant force since entering the league, tying the record for the most sacks in a single season. Fans and analysts agree he is on the fast track to Canton, making his contract talks all the more compelling.

While Watt seems like a surefire Hall of Famer, teammate Cam Heyward also enters the conversation. Heyward, with 88.5 career sacks and seven Pro Bowls, has recently gained recognition, notably winning the Walter Payton Man of the Year award in 2023. At age 35, his performance last season suggests he may solidify his Hall of Fame candidacy with a couple more strong seasons.

Meanwhile, kicker Chris Boswell is positioned as the fourth-most accurate in NFL history. However, the journey to Canton is challenging for kickers, with only four currently enshrined. Boswell’s perfect playoff field goal record (17/17) could boost his odds, though he remains outside the top 50 in all-time scoring.

Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick has enjoyed an impressive run as well, accumulating 17 interceptions and three first-team All-Pro honors from 2019 to 2022. However, his recent performance has waned, which could impact his Hall of Fame trajectory.

Another surprising mention is Cordarrelle Patterson, known primarily as a kick returner. He holds the record for career kickoff return touchdowns, though the Hall of Fame seems elusive for him. Finally, veteran cornerback Darius Slay, with six Pro Bowls and a Super Bowl ring, faces an uphill battle for Hall recognition, given his age and career stats.

The consensus among fans indicates that Watt and perhaps Heyward may eventually earn their gold jackets, while the hopes for others hinge on future performances.