A June blockbuster has had no effect on the Steelers' plans with T.J. Watt.
Pittsburgh doesn't intend to move the star pass rusher in the wake of its Minkah Fitzpatrick trade, and the team remains focused on signing Watt to an extension, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported Monday.
Watt, four times a first-team All-Pro and a Pro Bowler seven years running, is in a contract year and has been negotiating with the Steelers on a new deal, but he skipped out on the team's mandatory minicamp held June 10-12, and NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported at the time that talks had not progressed.
Following the Steelers' decision to ship Fitzpatrick, another All-Pro, away in a trade that netted them cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith, some opposing general managers may have been excited to sniff around and see if Watt might also be available.
Such is not the case, nor should it be -- Pittsburgh has been stacking the roster with veteran difference makers, clearly under the impression the team can finally make a deep playoff run behind new quarterback Aaron Rodgers after years of postseason stall outs.
There's essentially no way the 2025 Steelers can become a better squad by moving a talent like Watt, but his otherworldly gifts are also why he's seeking more money right now.
Watt is an AP Defensive Player of the Year who through eight seasons in black and gold has amassed an astounding 108 sacks, 225 QB hits and 33 forced fumbles. He is the engine that makes Pittsburgh's defense go.
With one year remaining on the extension he signed back in 2021, the market has far surpassed Watt's average annual salary of $28 million. He currently resides behind six other pass rushers in that regard, with the Browns' Myles Garrett earning a whopping $40 million per year.
The Steelers and Watt clearly still have some ground to cover together to come to a deal that reflects the going rate at edge rusher, but such an agreement is the only outcome Pittsburgh is aiming for.
Watt isn't following Fitzpatrick out the door, rather the Steelers are hoping he greets their many additions in the future, happy and with a new contract.
