NFL Rumors: T.J. Watt Reveals How Much Money He Wants On Next Deal

The Pittsburgh Steelers are on the clock. As training camp looms, All-Pro edge rusher T.J. Watt wants to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, according to multiple reports. 

T.J. Watt aims for $40M+ deal as Steelers weigh future

But Pittsburgh isn’t rushing to meet that number, setting the stage for a tense contract standoff that could shape the franchise’s future. Watt, entering the final year of his four-year, $112 million deal, is reportedly seeking to top Ja’Marr Chase’s $40.25M AAV and Myles Garrett’s $160M deal, despite turning 31 in October.

Pelissero: Steelers EDGE T.J. Watt's next extension will likely cost more than Browns EDGE Myles Garrett's new deal ($40M per year).

Watt re-signing with Steelers before season opener remains "most likely" outcome.

— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) July 3, 2025

Watt skips minicamp, Steelers search for “creative” solutions

Watt recently skipped mandatory minicamp amid stalled negotiations, though no bad blood is believed to exist. Still, insiders like Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette say there's a clear stalemate: Watt wants massive money, while the Steelers are wary of long-term commitment at his age. 

Chris Adamski of the Tribune-Review floated the idea that the Steelers might “creatively structure” the deal, potentially giving Watt a contract that looks like $40M+ per year using void years or non-guaranteed salary. That way, Watt gets the title, and the Steelers protect the books.

The BEST edge duo in the NFL 💥

T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith pic.twitter.com/zUnWqWp8dA

— PFF (@PFF) June 19, 2025

Market pressure and timing complicate the deal

Complicating matters is the fact that Micah Parsons and Trey Hendrickson are both in line for new deals soon, possibly raising the bar even higher. Watt could demand “$40M and a penny,” as some insiders joke, just to beat Garrett. 

The Steelers have the option to franchise tag Watt in 2026, but that risks souring a relationship with one of the most beloved and dominant players in team history. With a revamped roster that includes Aaron Rodgers, Jalen Ramsey, and Jonnu Smith, Pittsburgh knows the time to win is now, and keeping Watt content is critical to that mission.

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images