The Pittsburgh Steelers took a chance on TJ Watt in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft (30th overall), and it’s safe to say they hit the jackpot. Coming out of Wisconsin, Watt wasn’t the most experienced pass rusher in the draft, but Pittsburgh saw his potential—and they were right. From the moment he stepped on the field, he brought a relentless work ethic and a game-changing presence to the defense. Over the years, he’s become the heart and soul of the city of Pittsburgh, embodying the toughness and grit that define Steelers football.
Benjamin B. Braun / Post-Gazette
Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher TJ Watt sacks Will Levis after he lost his helmet on Thursday Night Football.
The Steelers have watched Watt develop into one of the most dominant defenders the NFL has ever seen. In just eight seasons, he’s racked up 108 sacks, 225 quarterback hits, 33 forced fumbles, 12 fumble recoveries, and 7 interceptions. Pittsburgh is beyond lucky to have Watt, and keeping him around long-term should be at the top of their priority list. When the Steelers struggled and regressed during the 2024 season, some fans went as far as suggesting the idea of moving on from Watt and rebuilding with a younger defense.
However, that notion never gained much traction, as Watt remains the heart of Pittsburgh’s defense and is widely expected to be a Steeler for life. With Watt entering the final year of his contract, many anticipate a massive extension to keep him in black and gold for years to come. On Wednesday morning, NFL insider Tony Pauline provided insight into the expected price tag for Watt’s extension in his latest article for Sportskeeda, offering a glimpse at what the Steelers might have to pay to secure their defensive superstar.
"TJ Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers is also in the final year of the four-year, $112 million contract he signed in 2022," Pauline said. "Watt has combined for 30.5 sacks the past two seasons, winning Pro Bowl and various All-Pro honors each year. Sources say an extension now would award Watt somewhere in the range of $35 to $37 million annually."
The Steelers superstar faced criticism from the fan base down the stretch, something he had rarely experienced in his career. Watt has set such an unbelievably high standard that even greatness isn’t always enough.
AP
Steelers' TJ Watt sacking Bengals' Joe Burrow during a home game in the Steel City of Pittsburgh.
The expectations for him are sky-high—he has to be perfect, especially in the biggest moments, or fans will demand more. That’s just the reality of the NFL—it’s a "What have you done for me lately" league.
Steelers' TJ Watt Still Missing One Major Accolade In Pittsburgh
Now 30 years old, Watt has yet to experience any real playoff success in Pittsburgh. It’s a harsh reality, but one he’s determined to change. His greatness has kept the Steelers competitive, even without a true franchise quarterback, and he’s been the driving force behind the team's success.
TJ Watt is a MONSTER ‼️☠️😤 pic.twitter.com/1V4rgWJR1L
— Football’s Greatest Moments (@FBGreatMoments) February 11, 2025
He deserves to be paid, and most Steelers fans don’t care what it costs—they just want their superstar to finish his career in Pittsburgh, hopefully with a deep playoff run to cement his legacy. For the Steelers, this situation feels familiar. They faced a similar decision with Cam Heyward, a veteran many assumed was past his prime.
Jeffrey Dean / AP Photo
Steelers' TJ Watt and Cam Heyward celebrate after a big time sack on the road.
Yet, Heyward silenced the doubters with a dominant 2024 season, earning All-Pro honors. Watt, on the other hand, battled injuries late in the season and didn’t have his usual impact. That will only fuel him heading into 2025, as he looks for redemption. With his contract extension looming, Steelers fans will be watching closely, eager to see their defensive cornerstone locked in for the future. Watt's impact has been generational and Steeler Nation is excited to see him continue to dominate into his 30s.
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