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Steelers defensive end T.J. Watt is aiming to be the highest non-paid QB in league history. Will Watt reset the defensive line market in the NFL. Will he holdout during training camp?
The Pittsburgh Steelers have had an eventful offseason that included acquiring Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf and trading George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys. Shortly after, they signed future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers to a one-year contract to be their starting quarterback.
However, the Steelers still have one significant storyline looming over their heads as we approach training camp.
Superstar defensive end T.J. Watt is currently at a standstill with the front office as he seeks a contract extension and does not appear to be making much progress. Will Watt skip training and be in danger of missing regular-season games?
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Steelers Superstar Aims to Reset Contract Market
Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported on The Rich Eisen Show that Watt remains at a standstill with the front office as he hopes to be the "highest paid non-QB in the league." However, even though he remains one of the most productive pass rushers in the sport, he did take a slight step back last season.
Will the stalemate between TJ Watt and the @steelers conclude any time soon?#NFL #HereWeGo pic.twitter.com/V4KDuXoFiy
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) July 1, 2025
In 2023, Watt tallied an impressive 19 sacks with 48 solo tackles. However, in 2024, Watt tallied only 11.5 sacks with 40 solo tackles.
With Watt now entering his age-30 season (turning 31 in October), his most dominant days are likely behind him, which could make contract negotiations even tougher. Given the current state of negotiations, Watt could continue his holdout throughout training camp as he has already skipped the team's mandatory minicamp earlier in June.
The Steelers have made it clear that their intentions for 2025 remain focused on competing in the AFC. Still, without Watt, their chances of overtaking the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North are significantly lower. While Watt continues to remain sidelined during offseason workouts, 23-year-old Nick Herbig should have a larger role in the defense.
Last season, Herbig tallied a career-high 5.5 sacks and would likely play on the left side of the defense alongside middle linebacker Patrick Queen and right outside linebacker Alex Highsmith.
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