Watson leads NFL with 33 sacks taken through eight games

Four quarterbacks sit tied for second with 23.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read

What happened: Deshaun Watson has absorbed an NFL-high 33 sacks through eight games in 2026. Aaron Rodgers, Bryce Young, Geno Smith, and Justin Herbert follow in a four-way tie for second place with 23 sacks each.

Why it matters: Watson's total puts him 10 sacks clear of any other quarterback in the league, maintaining a league-leading pace in negative plays. The gap highlights significant drive-ending setbacks compared to peers carrying similar passing volumes.

By the numbers: Through eight games in 2026, Watson has completed 163 of 249 passes for 1,806 yards, seven touchdowns, and three interceptions alongside his 33 sacks. Smith has absorbed 23 sacks while throwing for 1,913 yards and 12 touchdowns in eight games, and Rodgers has taken 23 sacks with 1,871 passing yards and 13 touchdowns through eight games.

What to watch: Pass protection schemes and pocket movement will face scrutiny entering the second half of the regular season schedule.

Sources

@PFF Nov 02, 2026 · 20:25 UTC

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Watson leads NFL with 33 sacks taken through eight games

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