Steelers Weighing Tough Contract Decision on T.J. Watt

The question now is, should the Steelers pay up or consider moving on from Watt?

Reviewing TJ Watt’s Career

Since being drafted by the Black and Yellow in 2017, Watt has played a crucial role in the team’s success. Not only is he a consistent closer, but he’s also a relentless threat to opposing offensive linemen.

Since entering the league, the former Wisconsin Badger has recorded 108 sacks, 49 pass deflections, 33 forced fumbles, seven interceptions, 225 quarterback hits and 126 tackles for loss. He’s also a seven-time Pro Bowler, the 2021 AP Defensive Player of the Year, and a four-time first-team All-Pro. Watt also holds the distinction of tying Michael Strahan’s single-season sack record of 22.5.

It’s no coincidence that he’s constantly in the conversation among players as the best defensive talent in the game.

Why Extend T.J. Watt?

Extending Watt is a conversation the Steelers should not take lightly. With a player of his caliber and talent, his impact can change the outcomes of games.

One telling stat is the Steelers’ record with and without him. Pittsburgh is 79-40-2 when he plays, but just 1-10 without him.

Even with depth options like Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, and rookie Jack Sawyer, Watt’s game-changing ability would be tough to replace. In 2024, Pro Football Focus gave him a 92.2 overall grade, ranking him third among 211 edge rushers. Also, he has a 90.1 pass-rush grade (sixth among pass rushers) and 91.4 run-defense grade (first among pass rushers).

The biggest factor giving Pittsburgh pause is that he turns 31 in October. Despite that, extending Watt could help the Steelers stay in Super Bowl contention and allow him to retire in Pittsburgh.

Trading T.J. Watt

After making a blockbuster deal for Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith, Adam Schefter tweeted that teams were considering whether they could trade for Watt.

Even with the Steelers remaining committed to getting a contract done, a trade is still possible. Pittsburgh’s offseason moves show that any move could be on the table.

If the Steelers decided to move on from Watt, here are five possible destinations that would make sense.

1. Green Bay Packers

When evaluating the Packers’ defensive line, Watt could immediately bolster the pass rush. After first-round picks like Quay Walker, Lucas Van Ness, and Devonte Wyatt have underperformed, it may be time to look for outside options to fill their role.

Pairing Rashan Gary with Watt would give the young players a chance to learn from a skilled veteran and better develop their talent. Last season, the Packers finished eighth in the league in sacks. While this is a positive sign, adding Watt could help them wreak even more havoc.

Watt is also a Wisconsin native, having grown up in Pewaukee. According to Rivals, he was a three-star recruit ranked ninth in the state before playing his college ball for the Wisconsin Badgers.

With those hometown ties and the Packers’ need for pass-rush help, Green Bay could be an ideal landing spot.

2. Detroit Lions

Another NFC North team that could make sense for Watt is the Lions. With Aidan Hutchinson returning healthy, he and Watt could form an exciting duo to watch.

After losing to the Washington Commanders 45-31 in the divisional round, improving the pass rush could boost their chances of a better playoff result. With former Saints first-rounder Marcus Davenport and Josh Paschal being the only real depth, Detroit should consider calling Pittsburgh about Watt’s availability.

After finishing 23rd in sacks during the 2024 season, an improved pass rush could help strengthen a team in contention. With the team’s championship window now open, they should capitalize on this opportunity before it closes.

3. Buffalo Bills

An intriguing option for Watt would be the Buffalo Bills. After falling short to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game 32-29, the Bills could look to go all in.

Despite signing Joey Bosa, health has been a concern. Allowing Bosa to play a smaller role might help him stay healthier and perform more consistently.

Pairing Greg Rousseau with Watt would give Buffalo a better chance to pursue Patrick Mahomes. Getting past the Chiefs remains the biggest hurdle for Josh Allen and company in their pursuit of a Lombardi Trophy.

4. Washington Commanders

Despite an NFC Championship appearance in Jayden Daniels‘ rookie season, the Commanders’ defense was beaten up by the Eagles’ rushing attack in a 55-23 loss. After giving up 229 rushing yards, the Commanders need a playmaker who can disrupt the run while also excelling at pass rushing.

That’s where Watt comes in. Even with Frankie Luvu, Washington still lacks a second true pass-rush threat. While Deatrich Wise and Dorance Armstrong add depth, Watt’s ability to be a game-wrecker would make them more competitive.

If Washington is serious about contending, adding Watt would elevate its chances. The only thing that might complicate the decision is how the team views Terry McLaurin’s contract dispute.

5. Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers are a missing piece from becoming a truly dominant defense. After ranking sixth in sacks in 2024, it may be time to add a player of Watt’s caliber.

With both the Steelers and Chargers running a 3-4 defense, Watt would have no problem adjusting to a new scheme. While Khalil Mack is aging, young guys like Daiyan Henley, Tuli Tuipulotu, and Junior Colson provide depth and versatility that could help over a long season. Watt could also be asked to do less, which would allow him to play more aggressively.

If traded to Los Angeles, Watt would reunite with former Steelers teammates Mike Williams and Najee Harris. Time will tell if the Chargers are willing to make a big move to contend in a tough AFC West.

Watt’s Future in Pittsburgh

Though a trade is unlikely, a contract extension could come after deals for the Cowboys’ Micah Parsons and the Bengals’ Trey Hendrickson, we’ll have to wait and see what route the Steelers chose. If the Steelers are looking to contend for this season and beyond, locking down Watt should be a priority sooner rather than later.

According to Steelers insider Gerry Dulac, Watt is looking to become the highest-paid non-quarterback. With this as a potential sticking point, the Steelers will have to decide if he’s worth more than $40 million per year.

The Steelers’ track record without Watt, however, may ultimately sway Pittsburgh to pay the price.