The Pittsburgh Steelers finally took care of their superstar pass rusher TJ Watt when they gave him a deal to become the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history for the second time in his illustrious career, reaching agreement Thursday on a three-year, $123 million extension that includes $108 million fully guaranteed at signing. The $41 million per year average is the highest of any non-quarterback in league history, according to ESPN insider Adam Schefter. Watt remains the face of the Steelers’ defense and continues to perform at an elite level year after year.
ESPN
Steelers legends Ben Roethlisberger and TJ Watt share a lighthearted moment and laugh together during a practice session in the heart of the Steel City, showcasing the strong bond between two of Pittsburgh’s most iconic players.
Despite all his personal accolades, Watt has yet to experience the kind of postseason success that defines a career in Pittsburgh. The team has failed to make a deep playoff run during his time, which has only fueled his desire to one day bring another championship to the city. That hunger for a Super Bowl has always been in the back of his mind, especially as he continues to build a legacy that rivals the all-time greats.
When Watt appeared on Ben Roethlisberger’s podcast Footbahlin, he asked the former quarterback what it felt like to be part of a Super Bowl parade. Roethlisberger gave an answer that clearly stuck with Watt. The conversation offered a rare glimpse into how much Watt craves that moment for himself, not for the sake of individual glory, but to share it with his teammates and the city of Pittsburgh.
"It's unbelievable, just especially here in Pittsburgh," Roethlisberger said. "There's so many people everywhere. It's just one of the best feelings to have the confetti come down."
It was a powerful exchange between two Steelers icons, one reflecting on the past and the other still chasing the ultimate prize.
NFL.com
Steelers superstar linebacker TJ Watt brings down former Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith with a perfectly timed sack, showcasing his relentless pursuit and elite pass-rushing ability during a key moment in the game.
Watt was mesmerized by Roethlisberger's response, and he asked how long the high of winning actually lasts.
"For me, it didn't stop for a long while," Roethlisberger told Watt. "You are going to do interviews, and people want to just keep on talking about it. They want to be like, 'Hey, great Super Bowl, thanks so much, what was it like?' You will just be walking down the street, and someone sees you. It's one of the coolest things ever, man. If there were ever a team, a defense, that deserves it, it's y'all, so I hope you get a chance to get there, man. It would be fun to watch."
Watt responded by calling Roethlisberger’s answer "legendary stuff" and shared how deeply he wants to win a Super Bowl for the fans of Pittsburgh. While the interview wasn’t recorded recently, it has resurfaced at the perfect time for Steelers fans, just as Watt signed his massive contract extension.
Many in the fanbase are relieved and grateful that the deal got done before training camp, ensuring the heart of the defense remains in place as the team prepares for a critical season.
Steelers' TJ Watt Is The Main Reason Mike Tomlin Has Never Had A Losing Season
Of course, some critics still point to the fact that Watt has never won a playoff game in his career. While technically true, most football analysts understand that postseason success is never solely on one player, especially in a sport as team-oriented as the NFL. The reality is that Head Coach Mike Tomlin has never had a losing season, and that consistency is largely because of Watt’s presence on the field.
Douglas DeFelice / USA TODAY Sports
Steelers' star edge rusher TJ Watt and Head Coach Mike Tomlin communicate with one another on the sideline during a professional football game on the road.
His impact is undeniable. Even though the Steelers have not made a deep playoff run with Watt, they likely would not have had a real chance without him. That is why the team rewarded him by making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
Steelers fans know that players like Cam Heyward and Watt deserve to have confetti falling around them on the game’s biggest stage. Tomlin knows it too. That is exactly why the Steelers pushed all their chips in and built a roster in 2025 with one goal in mind: bringing another Lombardi Trophy back to Pittsburgh.
#SteelerNation
