NFL teams pondering TJ Watt trade — where Steelers stand as contract drama lingers

One trade by the Steelers could open the door for another.

After the blockbuster deal involving the Steelers sending All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Dolphins for stud cornerback Jalen Ramsey, other teams have looked toward another Pittsburgh star. 

TJ Watt continues to hold out as he searches for a new deal. Currently, he is in the final year of his contract worth $21.05 million. 

Watt’s contract dispute and the recent Steelers trade have made the rumor mill around the star edge rusher start to move again.

Teams’ interest in the 30-year-old is expected to increase after Monday’s trade, but the Steelers are adamant they want him to finish his career in Pittsburgh, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported the Steelers have no intention of trading Watt and their focus remains on extending the seven-time Pro Bowler’s contract.

With the numbers Watt has been able to put up in the last few seasons for the Steelers, it makes sense why they would do everything they can to hold on to the talented pass rusher. 

Last season, Watt logged 61 tackles and 11.5 sacks. In 2023, he totaled 19 sacks. 

The Steelers expect to finalize a deal before the 2025 season, a year in which they aim to contend for a prolonged playoff run.

Their moves in the last few weeks support that. 

They added Ramsey to a secondary, which also houses Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay. The Steelers also picked up Super Bowl-winning quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who will now be throwing to star receiver D.K. Metcalf. 

Watt and Patrick Queen round out the linebacker core, and veteran edge rusher Cameron Heyward helps the defensive line.

The Steelers, who went 10-7 last season, have the 10th-toughest schedule in the league, which could be a challenge.

The window could be closing fast for the Steelers, and this year might be their best chance of making a deep run.