Steelers' TJ Watt Finds New Inspiration To Help Elevate Offense In 2025

Pittsburgh Steelers superstar pass rusher, TJ Watt got a massive extension in the 2025 offseason. He was signed to a new deal that pays him $41 million per year, solidifying his place as one of the highest-paid and most dominant defensive players in the league. Watt has consistently terrorized quarterbacks since entering the NFL, earning multiple All-Pro honors and Pro Bowl selections, and he remains a cornerstone of the Steelers’ defense. Despite his individual success, team achievements in the postseason have remained elusive, leaving a notable gap in his otherwise stellar career.

While Watt has been one of the best players in the NFL during his career, he hasn’t had any significant playoff success. That lack of postseason glory is not a reflection of his ability, but when looking back at his legacy, it would be a tough pill to swallow if playoff victories never materialize for players of his caliber, including fellow stalwarts like Cam Heyward. Both have been instrumental in keeping the Steelers competitive, yet the absence of deep playoff runs has been a source of frustration for fans and players alike.

Watt spoke to the Steelers media via 93.7 The Fan on Monday about how he is working to become a new leader in 2025. He emphasized that his focus is not only on producing on the field, but also on inspiring teammates, setting a standard for work ethic, and helping younger players grow. Watt made it clear that he wants to combine his elite talent with leadership to give the Steelers the best chance at playoff success, aiming to leave a legacy that matches his individual accolades.

"I am trying to be more open to talking to guys and not be so vulnerable sometimes," Watt told the Steelers media on Monday. "I just try to work on myself and try to be more encouraging when guys are doing a good job."

Watt has played eight seasons in the NFL and has racked up an impressive 108 sacks, consistently raising the bar year after year. Now, he’s turning his focus toward helping the entire team in new and impactful ways. 

One of his goals this season is to support the Steelers’ new-look offense, led by Aaron Rodgers, finding unique ways to contribute beyond his dominant play on defense.

"I am trying to talk to the offense more and not just being a defensive guy," Watt said. "I am trying to just help out in any way I can possibly."

Beyond the numbers and the highlights, Watt’s mindset this season is what sets him apart. He is focused on being more than just a pass rusher. He wants to be a mentor, a motivator, and a player who lifts everyone around him. 

Steelers' TJ Watt Eager To Help Aaron Rodgers In 2025

That means spending extra time with younger defenders, helping them read offenses faster, and finding ways to connect with the offense to create smoother game plans. Watt has always been relentless on the field, but now that intensity is being channeled into leadership and communication.

He is also embracing the challenge of adapting to a team in transition. With a new-look offense led by Rodgers, Watt knows the Steelers are counting on him to set the tone defensively while understanding how his play impacts the other side of the ball. Watt is not just chasing stats anymore. 

He is chasing legacy, teamwork, and the kind of seasons that can finally bring the postseason success he and the Steelers have been seeking for years. Not that he was chasing stats before, but Watt knows he needs to do more to help the team as a whole. He's going to do that in 2025.

Did TJ Watt's comments about trying to help out the offense fire you up? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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