ESPN REPORT: T.J. Watt Breaks Silence: “My Heart’s in Pittsburgh. I’m Not Going Anywhere.” We’re Building Something Special—Watt Doubles Down on Steelers Commitment
PITTSBURGH — In a feature interview published Thursday on ESPN, star pass rusher T.J. Watt emphatically quashed mounting trade and free-agency rumors, declaring, “My heart’s in Pittsburgh. I’m not going anywhere.” The three-time Pro Bowler, entering the final season of his current deal, insisted both he and the organization remain laser-focused on building a championship contender.
Watt, 30, admitted contract negotiations have stretched longer than he—or the Steelers’ brass—would have liked. “Yeah, we’re still at it,” he said. “But I’ve got full faith in Omar [Khan] and Coach Tomlin. They’ve shown time and again this locker room brings out the best in me. We’re building something special here.”
The linebacker skipped voluntary OTAs and did not attend mandatory minicamp, moves that fueled questions about his Pittsburgh loyalty. Watt downplayed concerns: “My absence? It was business—my camp is about winning Super Bowls, not just chasing money. I wanted to make sure my deal reflects the value I bring, and we’ll get it done.”
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin echoed Watt’s confidence. “T.J. is our leader. When he says his heart’s here, I believe him. Our focus is on the field, and we’re going to hit the ground running,” Tomlin said.
Watt’s agent, Justin B. Goheen, confirmed conversations continue and expressed optimism. “This is one of those deals that makes sense for both sides. T.J. wants to stay in Pittsburgh. The Steelers want him in black and gold.”
A four-time sack king, Watt recorded 14.5 sacks in 2024 despite battling a lingering thumb injury. His production remains elite, and his presence anchors Pittsburgh’s defense as veteran quarterback Kenny Pickett prepares for Year 3 under center.
Analysts speculated that Myles Garrett’s record-setting extension with Cleveland might pressure the Steelers to match or top the market. Watt, however, redirected attention to team goals: “Talk all you want about numbers. For me, it’s about rings. I believe this group can do it.”
As training camp approaches, Watt’s vow of commitment settles a hot topic heading into the summer. His pledge underscores that, despite contractual frictions, Pittsburgh’s premier playmaker is firmly invested in forging a winner on the banks of the Monongahela.