The Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) have honored three Pittsburgh Steelers players—kicker Chris Boswell, defensive tackle Cameron Heyward, and linebacker T.J. Watt—by naming them to both the All-NFL and All-AFC teams for the 2024 season.
Chris Boswell’s Record-Breaking Season
Chris Boswell delivered an exceptional performance in 2024, connecting on 41 of 44 field goal attempts, leading the NFL with a 93.2% success rate. He was also perfect on all 35 extra point attempts. Notably, Boswell made 13 field goals from 50 or more yards, contributing to his league-leading 158 points scored by a kicker. His 41 successful field goals set a new Steelers franchise record and are the most by any NFL kicker since 2011.
Boswell’s consistency earned him multiple accolades, including selections to the Associated Press All-Pro First Team, the NFLPA Players’ All-Pro Team, and the Pro Bowl Games. He was also named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week twice and AFC Special Teams Player of the Month for both September and October.
Reflecting on Boswell’s impact, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin stated, “He’s been everything that we need him to be. He is performing at an extremely high level and we’re extremely comfortable in calling upon him in just about any circumstances.”
Cameron Heyward’s Dominant Defense
At 35, Cameron Heyward continued to be a formidable presence on the defensive line. Starting all 17 games, he amassed 71 tackles (35 solo), eight sacks, 12 tackles for loss, 19 quarterback hits, and 11 passes defensed. Heyward led all NFL defensive tackles in passes defensed and ranked among the top three in tackles for loss, quarterback hits, tackles, and sacks.
This season marked Heyward’s fourth selection to the AP All-Pro First Team, tying him with Hall of Famer Joe Greene for the most first-team honors by a Steelers interior defensive lineman. He was also named to the Pro Bowl for the seventh time in his career.
Heyward’s longevity and sustained excellence have not gone unnoticed. “He is playing as good as he has ever played. He’s an ageless wonder,” Tomlin remarked.
T.J. Watt’s Relentless Pursuit
Linebacker T.J. Watt continued to be a disruptive force on defense, recording 61 tackles (40 solo), 11.5 sacks, 19 tackles for loss, 27 quarterback hits, six forced fumbles, and four passes defensed over 17 games. He led the NFL in forced fumbles and ranked among the top players in several other defensive categories.
Watt’s performance earned him a spot on the AP All-Pro Second Team and his fifth selection to the Pro Bowl. He also became the second-fastest player in NFL history to reach 100 career sacks, achieving the milestone in 109 games.
Coach Tomlin praised Watt’s relentless drive, stating, “No question he is relentless. He’s not hungry. Hunger can be satisfied. He’s driven. You feel it in everything that he does.”
A Testament to Excellence
The PFWA’s recognition of Boswell, Heyward, and Watt underscores the individual excellence and collective strength of the Steelers’ roster. Their standout performances have been instrumental in the team’s success during the 2024 season, reflecting a commitment to excellence that resonates throughout the organization.