TJ Watt graciously responded to Myles Garrett’s antagonistic comments, which further fueled the rivalry between the two star EDGE rushers who competed intensely for the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year award.

Watt tweeted a semi-ambiguous spoiler shortly before the award was announced during last season’s NFL Honors, which the Steelers star was not in attendance, saying simply, “Nothing I’m not used to.”

Despite TJ being the one shortchanged by the award show, Myles Garrett waited more than nine months Tuesday to air his own grudge as his Cleveland Browns prepare to host Watt’s Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday Night Football.

Garrett told reporters, “No, he didn’t say anything to me. He needs to apologize to me when I see him,” when asked about the Wisconsin native’s social media post from February.

“I’ve never complained about the trophy not being in my house and vice versa. He shouldn’t have to feel both ways about it going to me,” Myles added. “So I’m just going to play the game, I’m not going to do it.” “I’m not playing against TJ, he’s not playing against me. But we have a plan to do what we need to do: win the game and dominate the defense. But this year it’s up for grabs.’ I will see the best man win.”

When asked about these comments by the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review on Wednesday, the four-time Steelers team MVP responded: “I have respect for everyone in the league. Obviously, he’s a guy who’s been a top pass rusher in the competition is.” But I don’t play against him directly. It’s our team against their team, and at the end of the day I just want the Pittsburgh Steelers to come out with a win.”

In 2023, Watt led Garrett in nearly every statistical category, including sacks, turnovers forced, tackles for loss and QB hits.

The fact that Pittsburgh’s star outside linebacker didn’t take the bait but instead took the high road by speaking about his respect for every opponent and his desire to come out of the game with a win shows that Watt’s main focus is on the outcome of Thursday evening instead of the outcome of the match. then drama in the media.