The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a precarious position as speculation mounts about the future of edge rusher T.J. Watt. The star pass rusher, who has been a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s defense since being drafted in 2017, is entering the final year of his contract. As the front office navigates a crucial off-season, negotiations with Watt’s camp could pose a significant challenge.
Watt’s impact on the Steelers’ defense has been undeniable, but with his current deal set to expire, the team is facing the possibility of losing one of their most vital players if they do not act quickly.
Since his rookie season, Watt has been the heart and soul of the Steelers’ defensive front. His explosiveness, playmaking ability, and relentless engine have made him a key contributor to the team’s success. In eight seasons, Watt has accumulated 108 sacks and 33 forced fumbles, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and becoming a Defensive Player of the Year.
His presence on the field is often the difference between a win and a loss for the Steelers, and it’s clear that Watt is one of the most dominant defenders in the NFL.
However, with Watt entering the final year of his contract, the Steelers are now at a crossroads. ESPN analyst Benjamin Solak recently weighed in on the situation during an appearance on the “Up and Adams Show,” expressing concerns about the team’s approach to Watt’s contract extension.
“T.J. Watt’s only got one year left on his deal, and I feel like I would just want to make sure the Steelers are aware he only has one year left on his deal,” Solak said. “If they don’t want to extend him, be aware that other teams would be willing to extend him if they want to ship him over there.”
Re-signing T.J Watt must be Steelers' first priority in 2025
Solak’s comments highlight the growing pressure on the Steelers to secure Watt’s future with the team. While Watt’s 2024 season was not as productive as previous years, with some questioning his speed off the ball and overall productivity, his overall performance still warrants a significant extension.
At $30 million, Watt’s contract is undoubtedly a complicated issue, especially given his age and the potential for declining performance as he moves further into his career. Yet, his talent and leadership on defense are irreplaceable.
The Steelers must act quickly to negotiate a new deal with Watt. Failure to do so could open the door for other teams to make a move, potentially derailing Pittsburgh’s future. Watt’s value to the team is immense, and losing him would be a blow to the Steelers’ defensive identity.
While the front office faces a delicate balancing act, securing Watt’s long-term future in Pittsburgh is essential for the franchise to maintain its defensive dominance and remain competitive.
