The Pittsburgh Steelers face a important offseason resolution as they put together for the 2025 season with out one among their most respected property.
T.J. Watt’s absence from voluntary exercises has sparked hypothesis about his future with the franchise, notably as contract negotiations loom giant.
The star move rusher seems positioned to reset the defensive participant market with a deal that would eclipse present data.
His scenario has turn into a focus for a Steelers group seeking to keep its aggressive edge.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport addressed the scenario throughout his look on “The Pat McAfee Present,” providing perception into the continued discussions.
“I imagine it’s gonna occur, I imagine they’ll get to a quantity that everybody might be pleased with. It simply hasn’t occurred but, whereas the sting market is kinda in flux with Trey Hendrickson and Micah not accomplished, like, that is one other one which we’re ready on,” Rapoport stated.
“I imagine {that a} TJ Watt deal is gonna occur with the Steelers..
It simply hasn’t occurred but” ~ @RapSheet #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/VkVK1QOVHZ
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) June 9, 2025
Watt enters the ultimate season of his four-year, $112 million extension, which pays him barely over $21 million this fall.
That determine now seems considerably beneath market worth for elite edge rushers. Cleveland Browns star Myles Garrett presently holds the document for defensive gamers together with his $40 million annual contract.
The timing creates complexity for Pittsburgh’s entrance workplace.
With the sting rusher market nonetheless growing and different outstanding gamers awaiting new offers, Watt’s representatives doubtless need to see how these negotiations unfold earlier than finalizing phrases.
Regardless of posting his lowest sack complete since his rookie season with 11.5 final yr, Watt stays among the many league’s premier defenders.
His eight seasons of elite manufacturing have established him as a cornerstone participant price top-tier compensation.
The Steelers should stability fiscal duty with the fact of holding their defensive anchor happy as he approaches his thirty first birthday.
NEXT: Colin Cowherd Is Not Impressed With Steelers Signing Aaron Rodgers