T.J. Watt headlined an intense NX Level workout in Waukesha, Wisconsin on July 26, 2026, driving a group of NFL players and Badgers alumni through a grueling sled‑push circuit just days before Packers training camp opened.
What happened at NX Level?
The session, hosted by owner Brad Arnett, gathered a mix of Pittsburgh Steelers teammates, Wisconsin‑born talent and recent All‑Pro stand‑outs. Watt, the Steelers’ defensive powerhouse, took charge early, urging participants to finish each sled push with full effort. Riley Nowakowski, a teammate of Watt’s from Pittsburgh, recalled Watt’s relentless push‑for‑perfection, noting the veteran’s “what are we doin’?” mantra kept everyone on their toes.
Who else was in the mix?
Among the crowd were former Badgers Hunter Wohler and Riley Nowakowski, both rehabbing and aiming for breakout seasons. Eagles All‑Pro linebacker Zack Baun, a Brown Deer high‑school product, praised Arnett’s facility, saying it offers “the best work you’re gonna get” in Wisconsin. Titans rookie Chimere Dike, who set an NFL rookie‑record sack total last season, also joined the drill, adding depth to the star‑studded roster.
Why does Watt’s presence matter?
Watt’s involvement signals a growing trend of elite NFL players using private facilities to fine‑tune offseason conditioning. By leading the group, he not only models elite work ethic but also creates a competitive environment that benefits younger players like Wohler and Dike. The Steelers’ front office has highlighted Watt’s leadership off the field as a key factor in maintaining a winning culture, and this workout underscores that narrative.
What’s next for the participants?
With Packers training camp slated to start on July 29, the NX Level session served as a final preparation stop for many. Watt will report back to Pittsburgh for the Steelers’ own camp, where his conditioning will be a focal point for the defense. Meanwhile, Baun and Dike are expected to carry the intensity from Waukesha into their respective team practices, hoping to translate the hard work into on‑field production.
How did the workout unfold?
The drill began with a series of sled pushes, each weighing roughly 150 pounds. Participants were timed, and Watt personally called out any lagging effort, demanding “full effort all the time.” Nowakowski admitted he didn’t finish the line until Watt pushed him to redo the push. The atmosphere was charged, with players shouting encouragements and the clang of sleds echoing across the facility’s open floor.
What does this say about offseason trends?
The Waukesha session highlights how offseason conditioning has become a collaborative, cross‑team affair. Players from rival franchises are now sharing facilities, learning from each other’s routines, and raising the overall standard of preparation. Watt’s willingness to lead a mixed‑team workout illustrates his commitment to personal excellence and his influence on the broader NFL community.
Final notes on the event
The July 26 workout at NX Level was more than a routine conditioning day; it was a showcase of elite work ethic, mentorship, and the growing network of private training hubs shaping the NFL’s next season. Watt’s leadership left a lasting impression on everyone present, setting a high bar for the weeks ahead.