Steelers Not Likely To Negotiate Further With TJ Watt If He Skips 2025 Training Camp

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made multiple upgrades on both sides of the ball throughout the course of the 2025 offseason. Pittsburgh has acquired veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, wide receiver DK Metcalf, tight end Jonnu Smith, and superstar cornerback Jalen Ramsey -- along with multiple other additions. With multiple new faces officially now on the Steelers' roster this season, fans have turned their attention to the possible extension of star edge rusher, TJ Watt.

Watt, a seven-time Pro Bowler and four-time First Team All-Pro, is an elite linebacker who is widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in all of football. Watt is entering the final year of a four year deal signed in 2021, as the superstar has reportedly yet to reach an agreement with General Manager Omar Khan and his staff regarding an extension. With the start of training camp rapidly approaching, rumors surrounding Watt's presence in Latrobe, PA continue to linger as both sides work towards a deal.

As speculation continues to surround Watt's extension, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly took a moment to share his thoughts on this issue.

"There's been a lot of things that Omar and the organization has changed over the past three or four years," Kaboly stated.

Kaboly then went on to mention how the Steelers may be less motivated to negotiate with Watt should the superstar remain absent for training camp, claiming the front office may not be as willing to work towards a deal with someone who isn't with the team.

"I don't think they are willing to say, 'We are willing to negotiate with people who are not here.'"

Kaboly's comments are not surprising, as Watt remaining absent throughout training camp would almost guarantee damage to his relationship with the front office. The veteran thrived in 2024, earning himself Pro Bowl and Second Team All-Pro honors. Watt has been a crucial anchor piece on the Steelers' defense throughout his entire career, but some argue that his late-season disappearance statistically causes major reason for concern moving forward.

Watt may prove to play a massive role off the field in 2025 as well, as the veteran linebacker is expected to serve as an excellent mentor for younger defensive players such as Derrick Harmon and Jack Sawyer. The Steelers are expected to make Watt's contract extension a priority for the remainder of the offseason, as fans on social media remain hopeful that the superstar linebacker will be present throughout the course of training camp.

Steelers' TJ Watt Just Got Massive Help On The Backend

After trading veteran free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins in exchange of Smith and Ramsey, the Steelers find themselves with significant upgrades on both sides of the ball. Ramsey, a nine-year veteran and three-time First Team All-Pro, is an elite cornerback who has proven to thrive throughout every stage of his career. He could see an expanded role during his time with the Steelers, as the veteran cornerback has been rumored to play safety, as well as in the slot this upcoming season.

Ramsey may see an expanded role off the field as well, just like Watt, as the veteran should be an excellent mentor for Joey Porter Jr. and the rest of the younger defensive backs on Pittsburgh's roster. Ramsey will add an experienced spark to the Steelers' defense, regardless of where he plays on the field, as the former Dolphin may very well emerge as Pittsburgh's top acquisition from the offseason. 

As speculation continues to surround Watt and his extension, many around social media remain optimistic that an agreement on a deal will be reached sooner rather than later. Watt is a crucial piece of the Steelers' defense, and failing to extend him could prove to be catastrophic for Pittsburgh. Fans should continue to monitor the Watt situation closely, as his presence (or lack thereof) at training camp will have major significance going forward.

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