In July 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers doubled down on their defensive identity, extending TJ Watt to a massive three-year, $123 million deal. The contract made him the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback, a statement that Pittsburgh intends to keep its franchise cornerstone in black and gold for the foreseeable future. For the Steelers, Watt isn’t just a pass rusher; he is the heartbeat of a defense that has carried this franchise’s tradition of toughness into a new era. The accolades speak for themselves. Seven Pro Bowl selections, four first-team All-Pro nods, a Defensive Player of the Year award, and 108 career sacks already put him in the conversation as one of the greatest defenders in Steelers history. Yet Watt refuses to stand still.

The word came into focus in camp when Watt pu

See Full Page