PITTSBURGH (AP) — T.J. Watt, the standout outside linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has long aspired to be a “one-helmet guy” since he joined the team eight years ago. On Thursday, he took a significant step toward that goal by agreeing to a lucrative new contract that solidifies his status as the highest-paid defender in the NFL. This new pact ensures that Watt will continue wearing the iconic black-and-gold colors of the Steelers well into his 30s.
Watt, who was entering the final season of the four-year extension he signed in 2021, is set to earn a staggering $123 million over the span of this new three-year agreement, as reported by a source familiar with the deal who requested anonymity until the contract is officially announced. ESPN was the first to break the news of this impressive extension.
In a celebration of this milestone, Watt made a rare appearance on Instagram, sharing a photo of himself flexing in his signature No. 90 jersey. He also took to his Instagram stories to post a picture alongside his protégé, Nick Herbig, a third-year outside linebacker for the Steelers.
The average annual value of Watt's new contract stands at $41 million, surpassing the previous record held by Cleveland Browns defensive lineman and reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Myles Garrett. This contract was finalized in March and set a new benchmark for defenders. Moreover, Watt's annual salary slightly exceeds the amount received by Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, who briefly held the title of the league’s highest-paid non-quarterback.
Although Watt's total contract value is lower than Garrett's overall value of $204 million, it is noteworthy that Watt's extension is worth 2.5% more per season than Garrett’s. Watt, a four-time All-Pro and seven-time Pro Bowler, has consistently asserted his belief that he is the top edge rusher in the NFL, and this contract reinforces that claim.
While Watt is currently the highest-paid defender, the title may not last long, as Dallas Cowboys edge rusher Micah Parsons is also due for an extension. Given Parsons' age (26) and the ever-increasing salary cap in the league, his upcoming deal could set an even higher standard.
Watt, who will turn 31 this November, recently skipped mandatory minicamp in an effort to motivate the Steelers’ front office to finalize his contract. Head coach Mike Tomlin downplayed Watt’s absence, stating that it was only a matter of time before negotiations would reach a conclusion.
The timing of this extension is pivotal as the revamped Steelers, now under the leadership of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, are set to report to training camp at Saint Vincent College next Wednesday. Having Watt on board will be crucial for the Steelers, especially given the team’s desire to break a playoff drought that dates back to the 2016 AFC Championship game, shortly before they selected Watt with the 30th overall pick in the 2017 draft.
Despite Watt's remarkable statistics, including 108 sacks in 121 regular-season games, he has faced challenges in the postseason, managing just one sack in four playoff appearances. The Steelers are looking to the future by signing Rodgers and trading for veteran defensive back Jalen Ramsey, among other strategic moves, as they plan to find their next franchise quarterback during the 2026 draft, which will take place in Pittsburgh.
While Watt’s individual brilliance has been instrumental in keeping the Steelers competitive, the team is hopeful that this new contract will allow him to maintain his impact into his mid-30s, similar to longtime teammate Cam Heyward.
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AP Pro Football Writer Rob Maaddi contributed to this report.
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