BREAKING: Steelers Sign TJ Watt To Contract Extension

July 17, 2025
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt celebrates during 2024 game.

T.J. Watt is staying in Pittsburgh, and he's once again made history doing it.

Steelers Re-Sign T.J. Watt to Historic $123M Extension

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Pittsburgh Steelers have signed their superstar edge rusher to a three-year, $123 million contract extension that includes a staggering $108 million fully guaranteed. The $41 million average annual value makes Watt the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, reclaiming the title he previously held in 2021.

The deal comes after months of tense negotiations that included a minicamp holdout and widespread speculation about a possible trade. But the Steelers held firm, and so did Watt, who continued working out with teammates like Nick Herbig while pushing for record-breaking money. 

Insider reports suggested that guaranteed years and contract length were major sticking points, with Watt reportedly seeking a four- or five-year deal with heavy guarantees. Ultimately, the two sides settled on a three-year pact that keeps Watt in Pittsburgh through the 2028 season.

Now 30 years old, Watt’s résumé already rivals the all-time greats in Steelers history. A seven-time Pro Bowler, four-time All-Pro, and the 2021 Defensive Player of the Year, Watt has racked up 108 career sacks and shattered James Harrison’s franchise record. 

With this new extension, he’s poised to become a "one-helmet" player, following in the footsteps of Steelers icons like Troy Polamalu and Jack Lambert, while chasing the playoff success that’s eluded him so far.

Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

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