Steelers Defensive Captain OLB T.J. Watt Refuses to Swap Jerseys with Packers QB Jordan Love – and the Reason Behind It Has the Entire NFL Buzzing.

Steelers Defensive Captain OLB T.J. Watt Refuses to Swap Jerseys with Packers QB Jordan Love – and the Reason Behind It Has the Entire NFL Buzzing.

October 25, 2025 | Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

He’s the face of Pittsburgh’s defense, the heartbeat of the “Steel Curtain,” and one of the most feared defenders in the NFL. But this week, T.J. Watt, the Outside Linebacker (OLB) leading the league with 8 sacks and 15 tackles through seven games, proved once again that true greatness goes far beyond what happens on the field.

After the highly anticipated Week 8 matchup between the Steelers and the Green Bay Packers, Watt announced that he would auction off his game-worn jersey, with all proceeds going toward organizing a Halloween celebration for underprivileged children in Allegheny County — one of Pittsburgh’s most economically challenged communities.

In addition, Watt personally pledged an extra $50,000 to help fund costumes, decorations, and safe Halloween activities for children who otherwise wouldn’t have the chance to celebrate like others.

“I’m truly blessed to play this game and represent this city,” Watt said after Friday’s practice. “As a kid, Halloween was such a special time — the fun, the excitement, the imagination. Not every child gets that chance, and if we can bring a smile to their faces, that’s a victory bigger than any sack I’ve ever had. I’ll always give everything I’ve got on the field, but off it, I want to be someone this city can be proud of. This is my home — and protecting it means taking care of the people who live here.”

“We call this defense the ‘Steel Curtain,’ but real strength isn’t just about stopping opponents,” he continued. “It’s about lifting up those who need it most. If each of us contributes just a little, this city becomes a better place — and that’s the true spirit of Pittsburgh.”

Watt’s heartfelt gesture comes amid another dominant season for the Steelers’ captain. He’s the cornerstone of a defense currently ranked 8th in the NFL, allowing just 318 rushing yards per game, and continues to set the tone for his teammates both on and off the field.

“T.J. doesn’t just lead with performance — he leads with character,” said head coach Mike Tomlin. “He embodies everything the Steelers stand for — toughness, integrity, and compassion.”

The jersey auction has already drawn national attention, with thousands of fans and collectors eager to participate. Team officials confirmed that all proceeds will be donated directly to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and the Boys & Girls Club of Western Pennsylvania.

As Halloween approaches, the sight of smiling Pittsburgh children dressed in new costumes — made possible by their captain’s generosity — serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership isn’t measured only in tackles or sacks, but in heart.