T.J. Watt’s Future with Steelers in Question Amid Market Shift

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — As the NFL’s offseason progresses, T.J. Watt‘s future with the Pittsburgh Steelers is increasingly uncertain. Slated to enter the final year of his contract, Watt’s name has surfaced in discussions surrounding a potential contract extension, particularly in light of recent lucrative deals signed by fellow edge rushers.

General Manager Omar Khan expressed optimism about Watt’s long-term future in Pittsburgh, stating, “I’ll just say that I’m very hopeful that T.J. will finish his career as a Steeler.” This statement reflects the club’s commitment to negotiating a new deal with the seven-time Pro Bowler, especially as the market for elite pass rushers has rapidly evolved.

Recent signings, including Myles Garrett‘s new contract with the Cleveland Browns worth an average of $40 million annually, have reshaped salary expectations across the league. Garrett’s deal, which came shortly after Maxx Crosby‘s $106 million extension with the Raiders, positions Watt to seek a raise from his current average of approximately $28 million per year, established during his last extension in 2021.

Historically, the Steelers have leaned toward rewarding standout players with extensions; however, Watt’s age—he turns 31 in October—and recent performance shake the foundation of these negotiations. Last season, Watt recorded 11.5 sacks, a drop from his previous total of 19.0, raising concerns about a possible decline as he transitions into his thirties.

Despite these concerns, Coach Mike Tomlin remains confident in Watt’s abilities. “I’m not worried about T.J.’s production,” Tomlin said. “T.J. is a significant player. Ask anybody that is on our team, or anybody that he competes against.” Tomlin cited Watt’s vital role in run defense, where Pro Football Focus rated him among the league’s top performers.

Watt’s durability has been remarkable over the past two seasons, where he managed to play a full slate of games, accumulating 30.5 sacks and ten forced fumbles. However, as the Steelers weigh the prospect of extending him, they must consider upcoming salary cap implications, especially with other key contracts like Alex Highsmith‘s, who also presents a rising cap challenge.

Looking ahead, Watt is scheduled to earn $21.05 million next season, with a cap hit of $30.42 million. An extension could potentially lower this cap figure while securing his presence for the foreseeable future. There is no fixed timeline for an agreement, but signing soon could help mitigate costs before other star rushers, who may also be seeking contracts, in turn reset the market again.

As the NFL draft approaches, discussion about Watt’s future will continue to loom over the Steelers’ off-season strategy. The organization views the extension as a priority, as both sides share a mutual interest in maintaining a long-term partnership.