Steelers' TJ Watt Believes He's Already Paid The Price; Now It's Pittsburgh's Turn

The Pittsburgh Steelers are at a crossroads with superstar pass rusher TJ Watt. It’s clear to everyone what it means to have Watt on the field or to play without him. He’s the leader of the defense, the face of the franchise, and one of the most dominant players in the NFL. With his current deal set to expire after the 2025 season, Watt is making it known that he wants a new contract now. The Steelers have reportedly made an offer, but Watt isn’t thrilled with it.

Negotiations seem to be moving slowly, and many believe Watt is taking a harder stance than he did during his last extension. Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo recently said on 93.7 The Fan that Watt gave in the last time around and that experience could be fueling a more stubborn approach this time. Watt knows his value and doesn’t seem willing to settle again, even if it means putting pressure on the organization.

There’s definitely some nervous energy about how this situation will play out, but most expect the Steelers to give in eventually. Letting Watt walk or grow frustrated is simply not an option for a team trying to stay relevant in a competitive AFC. For now, the Steelers may be holding their ground, but the longer this stretches on, the more likely they’ll have to meet Watt’s demands to keep their defensive cornerstone locked in for the future. Fittipaldo believes the Steelers are most likely to give in this time around.

"I think the Steelers giving in," Fittipaldo said. "If you remember the last time, I don't want to say TJ was unhappy with the way that ended, but TJ took the deal that was on the table. And I think that's part of the reason why there's a little bit more of a hard line stance this time."

Watt is entering the final year of the four-year, $112 million extension he signed back in 2021. At the time, the Steelers made him an offer, and according to Fittipaldo, Watt just accepted it without pushing for more. He didn’t demand much, but this time around things are different. Since signing that deal, Watt has only added to his historic career with more accolades and elite-level production.

Watt knows exactly how important he is to the Steelers and likely wants to be paid accordingly. The pass rusher market has skyrocketed in recent years, and that creates a difficult situation. If the Steelers had worked out a new deal earlier, they might have saved themselves some money. Instead, they waited. Now, if they want to keep their superstar pass rusher, they will probably have to pay top dollar.

Watt is now 30 years old and will turn 31 during the season. Some around the league are concerned with how he finished the 2024 campaign. In the NFL, players can go from dominant to declining quickly, and that is the risk Pittsburgh is facing. Watt is worth the money if he can still deliver elite play, but the hesitation from the Steelers suggests they may not be sure. If they were confident, this deal would already be done.

Steelers Facing Tough Situation With Star Pass Rusher TJ Watt

If the Steelers let this situation drag out too long, it could create unnecessary tension heading into a critical season. Watt has never been a distraction, but even the most professional players can grow frustrated when they feel undervalued. Leadership, production, and consistency at his level are incredibly rare. 

For a franchise that prides itself on defense, losing a player like Watt or allowing contract talks to affect focus and morale would be a major setback. The front office has a choice to make. Many Steelers fans are super eager to watch how this all plays out.

#SteelerNation