The Pittsburgh Steelers have had quite an exciting offseason, and the addition of Aaron Rodgers at quarterback has given fans a reason to have cautious optimism heading into the 2025 season. Rodgers brings experience, leadership, and a strong desire to win, which could be exactly what Pittsburgh needs to make a serious playoff push. He also pointed out that once the Steelers take care of edge rusher TJ Watt, the team would have another key leader secured for the future.
Matt Freed / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers' TJ Watt chases Aaron Rodgers when he was a member of the Green Bay Packers.
Watt has been one of the most dominant and consistent defensive players in the NFL since the start of his career. He has racked up sacks, forced fumbles, and earned a reputation as a relentless game-changer. With free agency looming after the 2025 season, Watt has made it clear he wants the Steelers to take care of him now and likely make him the highest-paid pass rusher in football. His value to the defense and the organization as a whole is undeniable.
Although there has been some delay in getting a deal finalized, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently shared an update on SportsCenter regarding Watt’s contract situation. According to Fowler, talks are active and there is mutual interest in reaching a new agreement. The Steelers know they cannot afford to let a player like Watt walk, and with Rodgers publicly advocating for him, the pressure is on to lock down one of the league’s most valuable defenders.
"Steelers, I'm sensing are optimistic they can reach a deal with Watt eventually," Fowler said. "My sense is that he will probably be the highest-paid pass-rusher in the league when this is all said and done. He wants to be a Steeler for life, the Steelers want that, he's a legacy-type player. They believe at 30 years old he still has several good years left. They're just gonna have to come up with a number and a good guarantee structure."
This is encouraging news for Steeler Nation, which has made it clear they have no interest in seeing Watt finish his career anywhere other than Pittsburgh. Watt feels the same way. He has openly expressed his desire to remain a Steeler for life, and the fans have rallied behind him as the face of their defense.
The main frustration, both from Watt’s camp and from fans, is that the Steelers have waited too long to begin serious contract talks. JJ Watt has pointed this out several times, saying that Pittsburgh and other teams often hurt themselves by waiting to extend their star players instead of being proactive.
AP Photo / Matt Durisko
Steelers' TJ Watt meets with Browns' Myles Garrett after a game.
By holding off, the Steelers have allowed the pass rusher market to grow rapidly. The Cleveland Browns set a new standard by paying Myles Garrett $40 million per year, and deals like that have continued to drive up prices across the league. There have been strong rumors that Watt wants to become the highest-paid pass rusher in football, and according to Fowler, there is growing belief that he will get what he is asking for.
The Cincinnati Bengals are also dealing with contract complications of their own as they try to sort out the future of star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, who is unhappy with his current situation and has made it clear he expects a raise.
Steelers' TJ Watt Seeking First Playoff Win In 2025
Watt has built an impressive NFL career, but he has yet to win a playoff game. That is something he will be looking to change in the 2025 season. No one can say for sure if the Steelers will be a true playoff contender, but they have several pieces in place that give them a chance.
Matt Freed / Post-Gazette
Steelers' TJ Watt and Cam Heyward jog before practice starts.
Watt and Cam Heyward still lead a tough, physical defense, and now with Rodgers commanding the offense, the Steelers appear to be better positioned than they have been in recent years. If the team can stay healthy and play to its potential, Pittsburgh could surprise a lot of people and make a serious push for a playoff run.
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