The Pittsburgh Steelers have been a significant focus of conversation throughout this offseason, with a variety of compelling storylines. Among these discussions is the crucial question of how the organization will address their vacant starting quarterback position – whether by signing a seasoned veteran such as Aaron Rodgers, selecting a promising talent in the rapidly approaching 2025 NFL Draft, or potentially pursuing a combination of both strategies. However, beyond this prominent quarterback narrative, there are also significant internal developments and considerations within the Steelers organization that could potentially lead to substantial changes in the team's long-term trajectory.
Among the significant internal matters currently facing the Steelers are the reportedly challenging contract negotiations involving TJ Watt, a respected team captain and one of their star players. The difficulties in reaching a new agreement have fueled increasing speculation about a potential trade involving the star linebacker. However, Mark Kaboly, a Steelers insider, recently appeared on 93.7 The Fan and shared his skepticism regarding the potential trade market and the level of interest other teams might have in acquiring a player of Watt's exceptional caliber and high salary.
"I just don't think there's a lot of market out there for somebody that wants a 31-year old for $160 million," Kaboly stated.
A significant portion of the Steelers' fan base would be sad to see Watt traded, given the substantial and consistent impact he has made on the team's defense throughout his time. However, the recent lucrative four-year, $160 million contract extension signed by Myles Garrett, an elite edge rusher and AFC North divisional rival who plays the same position as Watt, has reportedly influenced Watt's contract expectations. Given their comparable standing as top performers at their position, it has been suggested that Watt is seeking a new agreement with similar financial terms to that of Garrett.
This situation naturally leads to speculation about the potential compensation the Steelers could receive in exchange for trading a player of Watt's caliber. During his recent appearance, Kaboly shared his perspective on this very question, suggesting that the return the Steelers might realistically expect in a Watt trade would likely be less substantial than what many fans and observers might anticipate.
"What I'm saying is, a second-round pick maybe," Kaboly shared. "If you're thinking a one, a two, and a three next year or something like that, you're kidding yourself."
This assessment from Kaboly serves as a stark reality check for many fans. However, his viewpoint is logical when considering the significant financial commitment any acquiring team would need to make for Watt, likely surpassing Garrett's already substantial $40 million annual salary. This predicament creates a compelling dilemma for the Steelers: either they agree to a massive contract extension to retain their defensive linchpin, or they risk losing a star player who is integral to their defense through a trade, potentially for less compensation than his true value to the team.
Although the Steelers possess the financial flexibility under the salary cap to potentially offer Watt a lucrative contract extension, the organization must carefully weigh their various financial obligations and priorities. They recently made a significant investment in their receiving corps by signing veteran wide receiver DK Metcalf to a substantial five-year, $150 million deal. Furthermore, the widely reported offer extended to Rodgers also carries considerable financial implications, as a player of his stature would undoubtedly command a substantial salary. These existing and potential high-value contracts necessitate a thorough evaluation of the Steelers' overall financial strategy and their ability to accommodate another massive contract for Watt while maintaining a competitive roster.
Is The Potential Reward Worth The Risk For The Steelers?
On the other hand, if the Steelers traded Watt, they'd highly likely get valuable draft picks. They could use those picks to get a player who ends up being just as good as Watt, or even better. You never really know how players will turn out in the draft. It's worth noting that Watt himself was selected 30th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, demonstrating that exceptional players can be found outside the very top of the draft. With the Steelers currently holding the 21st overall pick in the upcoming draft, the potential to acquire high-caliber talent at that position is significant, offering an alternative path to maintaining a strong defensive presence.
Given the current situation, what do you predict the Steelers will ultimately decide to do regarding Watt's contract and potential trade? Furthermore, considering all the factors at play, what is your preferred outcome for the Steelers and Watt?
