Steelers and T.J. Watt Still Not Close on an Agreement

Ahead of the upcoming 2025 NFL season, a significant question continues to loom over the Pittsburgh Steelers organization — the future of their superstar pass rusher, T.J. Watt. As one of the most dominant defensive players in the league, Watt’s status with the team is a matter of intense interest for fans and analysts alike.

At present, the Steelers and Watt remain at an impasse regarding a new contract. Watt has made it clear that he is seeking a substantial pay raise—a demand many believe is well justified given his consistent impact on the field. His performance over the years has placed him among the elite, and his value to the team cannot be overstated.

While the Steelers have expressed openness to negotiating a new deal, both sides have yet to pinpoint a figure that satisfies their respective expectations. This ongoing delay has fueled speculation, with trade rumors emerging as a noteworthy development. Some insiders and observers suggest that if a contract extension cannot be reached, the Steelers might consider trading Watt rather than risk losing him without significant compensation.

Despite the swirling rumors, there has been a recent update shedding light on the situation. ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported that the Steelers are very much committed to keeping Watt on their roster. However, he emphasized how complex these negotiations can become, particularly when balancing guaranteed money and the length of the contract.

“I talked to somebody with the team who said, ‘Look, these are complicated deals to do, but we are working on it. We want T.J. Watt here,’” Fowler shared.

In other words, although the path to a resolution may be challenging, the Steelers remain focused on finding common ground. As training camp approaches, fans will be watching closely to see if Pittsburgh can secure the future of one of its most valuable players and build a foundation for continued success in the years to come.

Editor’s Note: This article reflects the current status of contract discussions as of July 2025. The situation remains fluid, and updates will likely emerge in the coming weeks as negotiations continue.