T.J. Watt and the Pittsburgh Steelers have finalized a historic three-year contract extension worth $123 million, making Watt the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history for the second time in his career. The deal includes a staggering $108 million fully guaranteed at signing and an average annual salary (APY) of $41 million.
This surpasses recent contracts given to Ja’Marr Chase and Myles Garrett earlier in the offseason. The agreement ends a lengthy and tense negotiation period and assures Watt’s presence at the Steelers’ training camp in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.
Steelers Teammates and Leadership United to Keep Watt in Pittsburgh Long-Term
Watt, who turns 31 in October, had skipped mandatory minicamp while negotiations continued. The Steelers’ front office remained confident in retaining him long-term, and general manager Omar Khan publicly expressed hope that Watt would retire as a Steeler. Watt’s teammates also actively advocated for the team to finalize the deal.
Defensive leader Cameron Heyward emphasized Watt’s importance to the team, rejecting any trade speculation and lobbying directly with Khan to keep Watt in Pittsburgh.
T.J. Watt (NFL)Breaking Financial Records
The 2024 offseason has been record-setting for top non-quarterback salaries, with Watt now leading the pack. The following table illustrates the top five non-QB contracts by APY:
| Player | Team | APY | Date Signed |
|---|---|---|---|
| T.J. Watt | PIT | $41M | July 17 |
| Ja’Marr Chase | CIN | $40.25M | March 18 |
| Myles Garrett | CLE | $40M | March 14 |
| Danielle Hunter | HOU | $35.6M | March 21 |
| Maxx Crosby | LV | $35.5M | March 5 |
This marks Watt’s second appearance as the league’s top-paid non-QB. In 2021, he signed a four-year, $112 million extension that made him the highest-paid defensive player at the time.
Steelers Lock in Key Piece as Roster Resets for Critical 2025 Season Push
By finalizing the extension now, the Steelers avoid the drama of unresolved contract talks heading into training camp and can fully focus on a pivotal preseason.
The team has made several significant roster upgrades, including signing quarterback Aaron Rodgers and acquiring All-Pro talent like cornerback Jalen Ramsey and receiver DK Metcalf. Watt’s secured presence solidifies the defense’s foundation, allowing the team to align leadership and talent for a strong campaign ahead.
Despite leading the NFL with 73.5 sacks over the past five seasons, Watt remains committed to improving his game. He finished the 2024 season with 11.5 sacks, but his impact waned during a crucial late-season stretch.
Acknowledging the slump in January, Watt said he’s willing to adjust his positioning on the field to continue being a disruptive presence. “I want to be an impact player,” he stated. With a renewed focus and a new contract in place, Watt is poised to continue leading the Steelers’ defense and remain a central figure in their long-term plans.
