Steelers' Interesting Reason For Holding Off On Paying TJ Watt Finally Revealed

As the offseason buzz swirls around the Pittsburgh Steelers, one name continues to dominate internal talks and outside speculation: TJ Watt. With the former Defensive Player of the Year’s current contract inching closer to expiration, questions around his next extension have taken center stage. Notably, there’s increasing debate over whether the Steelers will reward Watt with a deal surpassing that of Myles Garrett, or if Pittsburgh’s financial strategy will leave Watt just shy of being the highest-paid edge rusher in the NFL.

In a recent appearance on NFL Network, insider Ian Rapoport expressed that Watt will try to get as much as the Cleveland Browns paid Garrett, but debates what Watt will actually receive in contract discussions.

“You know, if they possibly can, they’re going to try and to make him the highest-paid edge rusher in the NFL,” Rapoport said. “Because we are still waiting on some details from these massive deals, it’s a little tricky to see where TJ Watt belongs.”

Rapoport’s statement is revealing in more ways than one. It sets the tone for what fans and analysts can expect heading into negotiations while subtly flagging the uncertainty surrounding the edge rusher market. While the intent is to make Watt the top-paid player at his position, the ability to do so remains in question.

It’s also important to note Rapoport’s mention of “massive deals” still unfolding. That likely includes Garrett’s deal, as well as new terms for other top-tier defenders like Micah Parsons. Until those numbers settle, the Steelers may not be willing to finalize anything with Watt. It’s not just about being generous — it’s about being strategic.

If Watt signs a deal below Garrett’s, that sends a message — both inside and outside the locker room. Internally, veterans like Cameron Heyward and Minkah Fitzpatrick are surely paying attention. Players often benchmark their worth based on peers across the league. Even with a high base salary, a deal perceived as second-best could sour future negotiations.

Externally, the fans will respond. Watt is a fan favorite and, in many ways, the face of the franchise. Anything short of a record-setting deal will need to be accompanied by clear, strategic reasoning from the front office. Otherwise, the optics could reflect poorly on an organization long known for taking care of its own.

Pittsburgh is in a delicate cap position. They have made/are making moves in free agency, drafted to reinforce key units, and are still navigating extensions for rising players. Allocating over $40 million annually to one edge rusher requires careful planning. By utilizing signing bonuses and backloaded guarantees, they can create a deal that satisfies Watt’s demands, while protecting against negative long-term effects. 

It all depends on how aggressively they want to maintain competitiveness across all units — not just defense. The Steelers must prioritize Watt, as much as Pittsburgh would love to save cap space, underpaying Watt comes with risk. He’s not just a sack artist — he’s a game-changer, vocal leader, and symbol of continuity. When healthy, he completely alters how offenses approach game plans. Players like that don’t come around often.

Steelers Must Back Their Star

Watt has delivered just about every season he’s been healthy. He’s the heartbeat of the Steelers’ defense and one of the most productive players in football over the last five years. His next contract doesn’t just pay him — it defines how the organization values elite talent. Whether it’s above Garrett’s number, matches it, or slightly trails with incentives, the Steelers must craft a deal that reflects Watt’s impact. Pittsburgh doesn’t need to break the bank. However, the team does need to get this one right.

What kind of deal do you think Watt will end up with? Let us know in the comments below!

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