Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger Breaks Down TJ Watt's Uncertain Future In Pittsburgh: "Go To A Contender"

Watt has been the reason the Steelers have remained competitive despite inconsistent offensive play for many seasons. His ability to disrupt games, pressure quarterbacks, and be a game-changer on defense has kept the team in contention year after year. While some wild ideas about the Steelers potentially parting ways with Watt have been floated, it seems highly unlikely that they will let him leave Pittsburgh, given his integral role on the defense.

Entering the final year of his current deal, Watt will need a new contract for the 2026 season. Former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has offered his best advice on what Watt and the team should do in regard to his contract situation on his podcast Footbahlin. Roethlisberger’s insights could help give context to the decision, but it ultimately remains to be seen how the Steelers will navigate this critical negotiation. It doesn't seem likely that Pittsburgh would let Watt leave the Steel City.

"Yeah, I mean the only reason it could be not quite as big is because he’s a little bit older," Roethlisberger said. "The only reason. The only reason. I think if you are TJ, you can take a shorter year deal, like two to three years for a high average per year and then in three years, I can either retire or try to go to a contender that will have a real chance to win if the Steelers haven’t done that yet."

Watt is 30 years old, and while he’s still considered one of the best defensive players in the league, his body has undoubtedly taken a beating over the years. It’s unclear how much longer he can maintain that elite level of play. However, as Roethlisberger has advised, a two to three-year deal would give Watt flexibility and allow the Steelers to justify their massive financial commitment. This contract would essentially give Watt one last chance to help the Steelers become legitimate contenders again. If the team hasn’t figured it out by then, he may have the opportunity to pursue a championship with another contender.