T.J. Watt Could Be Targeted by Several Teams, According to Sources
In recent weeks, several teams have explored the possibility of acquiring the prominent pass rusher from the Pittsburgh Steelers, T.J. Watt, according to sources close to the situation. Watt, who was absent from the team’s recent minicamp, has generated interest in the market. So far, the Steelers have not shown a willingness to negotiate a trade for Watt. However, the player’s contract situation and the recent moves of Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith could influence the landscape. The transfer of Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith from the Miami Dolphins to the Steelers in a trade involving Minkah Fitzpatrick could be a relevant factor. The Steelers have reiterated their desire for Watt to finish his career in Pittsburgh. Ramsey will receive a $1.5 million raise this season, bringing his 2025 compensation to $26.6 million. The Steelers will assume the majority of Ramsey’s contract for this season, with the Dolphins paying $3 million. Smith will receive a one-year contract extension valued at $12 million. Watt, who is in the final year of his contract with the Steelers, also missed this offseason’s voluntary OTAs while trying to negotiate a new deal. Watt signed a four-year, $112 million contract in 2021, averaging $28 million per year. However, Myles Garrett redefined the pass rusher market three months ago with a record deal that averages $40 million annually and includes $123.5 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback player in NFL history. Watt, who will turn 31 in October, has not spoken publicly since the end of the 2024 season, but apparently expressed frustration with the negotiations in April when he posted a photo on his Instagram story showing a peace sign with his Steelers jersey.Watt posted a photo on his Instagram story showing a peace sign with his Steelers jersey.
Watt has 108 career sacks, 5.5 more than Garrett and the sixth-most among active NFL players. The four-time All-Pro was the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 and has played his entire eight-year career with the Steelers.
