Steelers, T.J. Watt Seal Record Extension
PITTSBURGH, July 17, 2025– In a move that reshapes the NFL’s defensive pay scale, the Pittsburgh Steelers have locked in star edge rusher T.J. Watt to a three‑year, \$123 million contract extension. The deal includes an unprecedented \$108 million fully guaranteed at signing, with an average yearly value of \$41 million—making Watt the highest‑paid non‑quarterback in league history.
Why It’s Historic
Unmatched Guarantee: The \$108 million guaranteed at signing obliterates previous benchmarks, signaling the Steelers’ confidence in Watt’s elite production.
Surpassing Peers: Watt’s \$41 million AAV tops Cleveland’s Myles Garrett, who commanded \$40 million per year earlier this offseason.
Game-Changing Factor: At age 30, Watt’s sustained dominance—despite age and past injuries—illustrates his value as the league’s premier pass rusher.
Negotiation Playbook
Watt entered the final year of a 2021 four‑year, \$112 million extension. He skipped mandatory minicamp in June as negotiations stalled over contract length and guarantees. Reports indicate that while the Steelers preferred a three‑year term to limit downside, Watt’s camp initially sought four years with maximum security . The resolution—a three‑year pact with full guarantees—reflects a middle ground as training camp looms.
What Watt Brings to the Field
Prodigious Production: Since entering the NFL in 2017, Watt has tallied 108 sacks, 225 QB hits, 126 tackles for loss, and 33 forced fumbles, leading the league over that span.
Accolades & Achievements: He’s a seven-time Pro Bowler, a four-time first-team All-Pro, and won the Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 after matching Michael Strahan’s single-season sack record (22.5).
Locker-Room Presence: Linebacker Cam Heyward publicly supported Watt during negotiations, underscoring his leadership role and the team’s desire to keep him in Pittsburg.
Steelers’ Vision for the Future
Pittsburgh, led by Coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan, has overhauled its offense recently—acquiring Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf to end a postseason drought. Locking in Watt on defense puts the team’s core on both sides of the ball in place, signaling a serious bid for sustained success.
What’s Next?
Training Camp Resolved: With the contract done, Watt is expected to report to **St. Vincent College in Latrobe ahead of camp.
Facing Goals & Expectations. Pittsburgh aims to break its streak of early playoff exits. With Watt locked in, anticipation now shifts to **the season’s first postseason win**—a major milestone he personally seeks .
Final Take
This three‑year, \$123 million extension isn’t just a historic payday—it’s a strategic move by both player and team. Watt solidifies his legacy as one of the game’s premier defenders, while the Steelers double down on a roster retooled to shake off a decade of playoff stagnation. If he maintains his ferocity off the edge, Pittsburgh’s investment could pay dividends both in sacks and postseason breakthroughs.