TJ Watt Remains Locked In Amid Ongoing Contract Dispute
Pittsburgh, PA – May 25, 2025 — Despite lingering uncertainty over his contract situation, Pittsburgh Steelers star linebacker T.J. Watt appears as focused as ever. As offseason workouts ramp up in Pittsburgh, Watt’s intensity, preparation, and leadership remain undeterred, even as behind-the-scenes negotiations continue to stir headlines.
Watt, widely regarded as one of the NFL’s most dominant defensive players, is entering the final two years of his current contract. While he is already among the league’s highest-paid defenders, sources close to the situation indicate that Watt and his camp are pushing for a restructured deal that better reflects his continued elite performance and growing influence in the locker room.
Yet, from the outside looking in, Watt’s demeanor hasn’t changed.
“He’s all business,” said Steelers defensive coordinator Teryl Austin after a recent voluntary team session. “You wouldn’t know anything is going on if you watched him work. He’s dialed in, he’s leading drills, and he’s setting the tone like he always does.”
Watt, 30, finished the 2024 season with 16.5 sacks and was once again a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year. Despite battling through injuries, his impact on the field remained undeniable. His ability to pressure quarterbacks, defend the run, and elevate the play of those around him continues to set him apart in the league.
And while contract disputes often lead to tension, holdouts, or distractions, Watt’s approach has been notably professional. Teammates have praised his leadership and consistency, and several younger players have pointed to him as a model for how to handle business both on and off the field.
“He’s a pro’s pro,” said second-year linebacker Nick Herbig. “There’s a reason he’s one of the best in the game. Watching how he carries himself through all of this — it’s motivating. It shows that you can handle your business without letting it affect your work.”
Steelers general manager Omar Khan has acknowledged that discussions are ongoing but declined to go into specifics. “We have a ton of respect for T.J. and what he’s meant to this organization,” Khan said in a recent radio interview. “We want him to be a Steeler for a long time, and we’re having productive conversations.”
Still, with the market for elite pass-rushers continuing to climb — especially after recent record-setting deals for players like Micah Parsons and Myles Garrett — Watt’s team is believed to be seeking a bump that reaffirms his value not just as a pass rusher, but as the heartbeat of the Steelers’ defense.
Privately, some NFL insiders speculate that Watt may be willing to take a short-term extension to maintain flexibility, while ensuring he remains near the top of the financial pecking order. Others suggest he’s more interested in securing long-term security with guarantees that reflect his on-field dominance.
For now, though, Watt’s actions speak louder than any speculation.
As the Steelers prepare for a pivotal 2025 season — one with high expectations following a strong playoff run last year — Watt remains the rock of the defense. Focused. Intense. Relentless.
“He’s here. He’s working. And he’s leading,” head coach Mike Tomlin said. “That’s all we need to know.”
Whether or not the contract gets resolved before training camp, one thing is clear: T.J. Watt isn’t letting business interfere with football. And for the Steelers, that’s great news.
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