Steelers Get Crushing Update On TJ Watt's Trade Value

The Pittsburgh Steelers have had quite an interesting offseason. One of the biggest remaining issues that still needs to be addressed is the future of superstar pass rusher TJ Watt. Watt has been a dominant force for the Steelers' defense and is widely regarded as one of the best players in the NFL. Now approaching his 31st birthday in October and with his contract set to expire after the 2025 season, Watt is looking for a new deal that would make him the highest-paid pass rusher in the league.

The Steelers are interested in keeping Watt in Pittsburgh and rewarding him for everything he has done for the franchise. However, the market has shifted, and the recent $40 million-per-year deal given to Myles Garrett by the Cleveland Browns has complicated things. Pittsburgh is trying to strike a balance between showing loyalty to their defensive leader and maintaining long-term financial flexibility as they build their roster.

Steelers insider Mark Kaboly joined 93.7 The Fan on Thursday and offered a surprising update on Watt's situation. He revealed that if the Steelers were to explore trading Watt, the return would likely not be as high as many expect. Despite Watt's elite production, his age, injury history, and contract demands have reportedly lowered his value in the trade market, making the decision even more difficult for the team.

"I think it would have to be two-fold," Kaboly said. "They would have to be at an impasse contractual wise if they think it’s not going to get done and it’s going to cause a commotion here leading into the season. That would be part one, and then what you would be able to get for a 31-year-old making $160-200 million. That all of a sudden, the compensation you get back is not as much as you think it would be to be honest with you."

ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler recently speculated that the Steelers could likely fetch a first-round pick and a second or third-rounder in return for Watt. On the surface, that seems like fair value for a player of Watt’s caliber, and many Steelers fans would likely agree.

However, Kaboly disagrees. He believes that because of Watt’s massive price tag and the financial commitment a new team would have to make, getting a significant return in a trade isn't as realistic as people think.

According to Kaboly, teams around the league may be hesitant to give up high-end draft capital while also preparing to pay Watt a market-resetting deal, which significantly lowers the likelihood of a blockbuster return.

"If you can get a first-rounder, I think you would be shocked," Kaboly said. "You are not going to get multiple picks."

The Steelers have made it clear they want to keep Watt in Pittsburgh. They don’t want to see him finish his career elsewhere, and they still believe he’s the type of player worth a top-dollar deal. But the reality is that Watt will turn 31 during the 2025 season, and his age is starting to become a factor. 

He also dealt with injuries late last year that noticeably affected his impact on the field, raising concerns about how much longer he can continue to perform at an elite level.

Steelers' Omar Khan Facing A Tough Challenge With TJ Watt

While both Watt and the Steelers are motivated to get a deal done, nothing is being ruled out. General Manager Omar Khan has shown a willingness to make bold and unexpected moves since taking over the front office. The team extended Khan’s contract on Thursday, signaling strong confidence in his leadership. He’s earned praise for reshaping the roster quickly and decisively, but the Watt situation may be his toughest challenge yet.

Navigating a contract extension for a franchise icon who still plays at a high level but is nearing the twilight of his prime is no easy task. The Steelers want to remain competitive and loyal, but they also have to protect their long-term future. How Khan handles the next few months with Watt could define the next chapter of his tenure as general manager.

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