T.J. Watt’s future with the Pittsburgh Steelers hangs in the balance as he continues to navigate a contract dispute with the franchise. With training camp approaching, the superstar edge rusher has yet to secure a new deal and skipped the mandatory minicamp in June due to his unresolved contract status. As he enters the final years of his current agreement, which expires in 2026, speculation surrounding his potential trade has intensified.
Recent reports indicate that the Steelers have explored trade options for Watt, although the team initially had no plans to part ways with their defensive linchpin. According to insider Mark Kaboly, the organization assessed Watt’s market value during discussions. Despite these developments, Watt is positioned to receive a historic contract extension regardless of whether he stays in Pittsburgh or moves elsewhere.
Bleacher Report analyst Gary Davenport predicts that Watt’s new contract could be worth $121 million over three years, with $81 million guaranteed. Davenport noted, “It’s still hard to imagine the Steelers trading Watt, but it can’t be ruled out. What isn’t up for debate is that someone is going to pay him—and when they do, his deal will rival (or surpass) Myles Garrett’s $40 million a season.”
Watt is eager to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, a title currently held by All-Pro receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who signed a four-year, $161 million extension with the Cincinnati Bengals in March. Watt is also seeking a deal that exceeds the $160 million contract that Garrett received from the Cleveland Browns earlier this year, which included $123 million guaranteed.
While Davenport’s projection of a three-year, $121 million deal would make Watt the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league on an annual basis, there is speculation that he may prefer a four-year agreement similar to those held by Chase and Garrett. The Steelers may be hesitant to offer such terms, especially considering Watt’s age of 30 and a slight decline in performance anticipated in 2024.
Regardless of the negotiations, it is clear that Watt is poised to secure a lucrative contract that reflects his status as one of the league’s premier defensive players. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on both Watt and the Steelers as they work toward a resolution.
