Browns’ Myles Garrett: Steelers’ T.J. Watt Should ‘Apologize’ for DPOY Snub
Cleveland Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett has reignited the debate over the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award, claiming that Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt should “apologize” for Garrett being snubbed in favor of Watt for the 2021 award.
Background: The DPOY Race
Garrett and Watt were widely considered the frontrunners for the DPOY award in 2021. Garrett recorded 16 sacks, 17 tackles for loss, and 48 quarterback pressures, while Watt tallied 22.5 sacks, 21 tackles for loss, and 64 quarterback pressures. Watt ultimately won the award, becoming the first player in NFL history to record 20 sacks and 60 quarterback pressures in a single season.
Garrett’s Perspective
In a recent interview, Garrett expressed his disappointment with the DPOY snub, stating, “I feel like I was the best defensive player in the league last year. I’m not trying to take anything away from T.J. Watt, but I think I should have won.” Garrett went on to say that Watt should “apologize” for his victory, believing that it was a “disrespectful” decision.
Statistical Comparison
While Watt’s sack total was higher than Garrett’s, Garrett had a slight edge in tackles for loss and quarterback pressures. However, Watt’s impact on the Steelers’ defense was arguably greater, as he was a key part of a unit that ranked first in the NFL in total defense and sacks. Garrett, on the other hand, played on a Browns defense that struggled throughout the season.
Expert Opinions
NFL experts have weighed in on the DPOY debate, with some supporting Garrett’s claim and others defending Watt’s victory. Former NFL defensive end Stephen Curry believes that Garrett was “robbed” of the award, while current NFL analyst Brian Baldinger praised Watt’s “unbelievable” season.
Fan Reaction
The DPOY snub has sparked a passionate debate among NFL fans. Some believe that Garrett deserved the award based on his statistical production, while others argue that Watt’s impact on the Steelers’ defense was more significant. The controversy has created a buzz on social media, with fans expressing their opinions and engaging in heated discussions.
Conclusion
The debate over the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award is likely to continue for some time. While T.J. Watt ultimately won the award, Myles Garrett’s claim that he should have won has reignited the discussion about who the league’s top defensive player truly was last season. Ultimately, the decision was subjective, but it is clear that both Garrett and Watt had outstanding seasons and are among the elite defenders in the NFL.