Pittsburgh Steelers Present Contract Offer to Wisconsin Great T.J. Watt Amid OTA Absence
June 2, 2025
PITTSBURGH, PA – The Pittsburgh Steelers have extended a formal contract offer to veteran linebacker and former Wisconsin Badgers standout T.J. Watt, but sources close to the situation suggest that the proposal may not meet Watt’s expectations. As negotiations become increasingly intense, Watt has chosen not to participate in the team’s organized team activities (OTAs), sending a strong message about his stance. The central question now looms large: will a historic deal be reached, or is the franchise on the verge of a prolonged impasse with one of its most important players?
Watt’s Dominance and Legacy in Pittsburgh
Since joining the Steelers as a first-round selection in the 2017 NFL Draft, T.J. Watt has established himself as the heartbeat of the team’s defense. Known for his relentless energy, top-tier athleticism, and innate football intelligence, Watt has risen through the ranks to become one of the league’s premier pass rushers.
In his eight years with the team, Watt has recorded over 100 career sacks, numerous forced fumbles, and has often been the deciding factor in critical games. He was honored as the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 after tying the single-season sack record with 22.5, a feat that solidified his place among the NFL elite.
Beyond statistics, Watt’s leadership and unwavering commitment have made him a locker-room pillar and a fan favorite. As the Steelers continue to retool for a deep playoff run, his presence on and off the field is viewed as indispensable.
The Offer: Significant, But Short of Expectations?
Sources familiar with the ongoing negotiations indicate that the Steelers have proposed a contract intended to reflect Watt’s value to the organization. However, there are growing indications that the deal may not meet the financial standards Watt and his representatives are targeting. The primary sticking points appear to be not only the average annual salary but also the level of guaranteed money and the overall structure of the contract.
Currently, Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns holds the distinction of the NFL’s highest-paid edge rusher, earning $32 million annually under a contract signed in 2024. Watt, with a comparable — if not superior — body of work, is rumored to be aiming for a new deal that surpasses Garrett’s in both salary and guaranteed dollars.
While the Steelers are believed to have tabled a proposal that would put Watt among the top-paid defenders in the game, the specifics of bonuses, injury protections, and cap flexibility may be falling short of Watt’s desired benchmarks.
An insider close to the negotiations remarked, “The Steelers aren’t lowballing him — far from it. But Watt’s team feels he’s not just another top pass rusher. They see him as a generational talent who deserves a deal to reflect that.”
Watt’s Absence: A Tactical Move
Watt’s decision to skip OTAs — sessions that are voluntary under NFL rules — has drawn attention precisely because of what it signals. In previous seasons, Watt has participated in these sessions, even if in a limited capacity. His absence this time around underscores the seriousness with which he and his camp are treating the contract talks.
In fact, this isn’t the first time Watt has taken this approach. In 2021, he participated in only walkthroughs and individual drills during camp while negotiating his previous extension, which eventually made him the league’s highest-paid defensive player at the time.
With that deal nearing its end, and the market now significantly shifted, Watt appears to be applying strategic pressure to ensure he maximizes his next contract — likely the last massive payday of his career.
A source close to Watt confirmed, “This isn’t personal. It’s business. He’s doing what any elite player with his résumé would do — making sure he gets what he’s worth.”
Steelers’ Dilemma: Reward a Star or Risk a Rift?
For Pittsburgh, the situation presents a difficult balancing act. On the one hand, Watt is arguably the most impactful player on the team and a central figure in their identity. Rewarding him with a substantial deal seems like an obvious move, especially given his production, leadership, and consistent excellence.
On the other hand, the Steelers must manage their salary cap carefully. They have young defensive stars like Nick Herbig and Keeanu Benton on the rise, as well as financial commitments coming due for offensive players like quarterback Kenny Pickett. Committing a massive contract to Watt — potentially with record-setting guarantees — could limit future flexibility.
While General Manager Omar Khan has been more progressive in his approach to player contracts than his predecessors, the organization still maintains a long-standing tradition of conservative financial practices.
“Watt is unique,” said one former NFL GM. “You don’t want to overpay for aging stars, but he’s not showing signs of slowing down. If you’re going to make an exception, he’s the guy you do it for.”
Team Support and Locker Room Unity
Inside the Steelers’ locker room, Watt’s absence hasn’t caused division. In fact, many players have expressed support for their teammate and hope that negotiations are resolved in his favor.
“T.J. sets the tone for all of us,” said fellow All-Pro Minkah Fitzpatrick. “We’re behind him 100%. Hopefully the front office and him can find common ground soon.”
Coach Mike Tomlin, known for his poise and player-first philosophy, has also downplayed any concerns, emphasizing that Watt remains a valued part of the organization.
“We’re professionals here,” Tomlin told reporters last week. “T.J. is handling his business. We’ll be ready for him when he’s ready to return.”
Such unity suggests the team understands the business side of football and respects Watt’s decision to protect his interests — even if it means missing early off-season work.
What’s at Stake: More Than Just Money
This negotiation has implications that go far beyond financial figures. For Watt, it’s about receiving recognition for years of elite performance. For the Steelers, it’s about sending a message to current and future players regarding how the organization treats its cornerstone talents.
Should a deal not be reached by mandatory minicamp later this month, questions will begin to mount regarding Watt’s availability for training camp — and possibly the regular season. Though neither side is expected to let the dispute escalate to a holdout that affects game action, the risk remains.
One potential resolution could involve a creative contract structure that blends guaranteed money with performance-based incentives and early opt-out clauses. This would give both sides a path to compromise — ensuring Watt gets financial respect while allowing the Steelers some protection against future injury or decline.
Still, the clock is ticking.
Conclusion: Future Uncertain but Negotiations Ongoing
As the NFL enters the heart of its offseason, all eyes in Pittsburgh are fixed on one question: will the Steelers and T.J. Watt strike a deal worthy of his legacy?
Watt’s impact on the franchise is undeniable. He has been the face of the defense, a team captain, and a consummate professional. Failing to retain him under favorable terms would not only damage the team’s defensive outlook — it could affect team morale and set a precedent for future negotiations with star players.
With mandatory activities and training camp approaching, the hope is that both sides will find common ground soon. Whether that results in a record-setting contract or a calculated compromise remains to be seen. But one thing is clear — the resolution of this standoff could shape the next chapter of Steelers football.
