T.J. Watt: A Future Outside of Pittsburgh?
In recent weeks, several teams have explored the possibility of acquiring star Pittsburgh Steelers player T.J. Watt, according to sources close to the situation.
Watt, who did not participate in the team’s most recent minicamp, would be unhappy with his current contractual situation.
Although the Steelers have not shown a willingness to negotiate, the interest of other teams could increase, especially after the recent move involving Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith.
The Steelers have reiterated their desire for Watt to finish his career in Pittsburgh.
Watt is in the last year of his contract and also missed voluntary offseason activities, seeking to negotiate a new deal.
In 2021, Watt signed a four-year contract for $112 million, averaging $28 million annually.
However, the market for pass rushers was redefined three months ago with a record deal averaging $40 million annually and guaranteeing $123.5 million, making Myles Garrett the highest-paid non-quarterback player in NFL history.
Watt, who will turn 31 in October, has not made any public statements since the end of the 2024 season. However, in April, he apparently expressed his frustration with the negotiations through a post on his Instagram story.
Image of T.J. Watt with a peace gesture
Watt has 108 career sacks, 5.5 more than Garrett and the sixth-most among active NFL players. He was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 and has played his entire eight-year career with the Steelers.
