As the Pittsburgh Steelers navigate their early stages of offseason workouts, the atmosphere is buzzing with fresh energy and new faces. But amidst the excitement, one notable absence casted a long shadow: T.J. Watt.
Watt’s current contract negotiations have left fans uneasy — and for good reason. Since entering the league in 2017, he’s been nothing short of a game-wrecker. With 108 sacks and 33 forced fumbles under his belt, Watt’s presence isn’t just important — it’s foundational.
He’s the kind of player who tilts the field, creates chaos, and strikes fear in opposing quarterbacks before the snap.
Now, with the front office facing what might be the most important extension of the year, a fork in the road has emerged. Can the Steelers secure their defensive cornerstone before tensions rise? Thankfully, not everyone is panicking — especially not Alex Highsmith.
The Pittsburgh Steelers must work diligently to sign T.J Watt to an extension
Highsmith, Watt’s edge-rushing partner and a rising force in his own right, has been a calming voice amid the contract buzz. Speaking to the media last week, Highsmith shared some optimism.
“I’ve been catching up with him all offseason,” he said. “Like I said in some earlier interviews, he really wants to be here. I’m very confident they’ll get a deal done soon.”
That kind of reassurance from someone in the locker room — someone who shares the huddle, the grind, and the goals — means something. It brings a sense of calm to a fanbase that knows just how critical Watt is to the team’s identity.
Watt isn’t just another star player — he is Pittsburgh football. His relentless motor, leadership, and production make him one of the most feared defenders in the league. You don’t replace that. You don’t gamble with that. You lock it in, and you build around it.
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I believe the front office understands this. The Steelers are a proud franchise with a tradition of rewarding their stars. They can't afford to let contract uncertainty distract from what this team is trying to build in 2025.
They must get in front of this situation before it spirals — before it becomes a runaway train.
With Highsmith offering clarity and Watt’s desire to stay, the path forward is clear. It’s time to get the deal done.