T.J. Watt Becomes Highest-Paid Non-Quarterback with Record $123M Steelers Extension
T.J. Watt has officially become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. He signed a groundbreaking three-year contract extension with the Pittsburgh Steelers worth $123 million. The deal secures his future with the franchise and sets a new standard for defensive player salaries in the NFL.
Contract Details Break NFL Records
The new contract includes $108 million fully guaranteed at signing. Watt will now earn an average annual salary of $41 million. This surpasses deals signed by stars like Myles Garrett and Ja’Marr Chase earlier this offseason.
According to ESPN, the deal makes Watt the highest-paid non-quarterback in league history. His status as an elite edge rusher is now matched by record-breaking compensation.
Months of Negotiations Finally Resolved
This extension comes after months of talks between Watt and the Steelers. During negotiations, Watt skipped the team’s mandatory minicamp in June.
Now that the deal is signed, he is expected to join training camp at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Watt marked the moment by posting a celebratory photo on Instagram, expressing his excitement to remain in Pittsburgh.
Steelers Front Office Always Had Faith
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan had remained confident through the process. He previously stated, “I’m hopeful T.J. will finish his career here.” With this new deal, that possibility looks more likely.
This is not Watt’s first big deal. In 2021, he signed a four-year, $112 million contract that also made headlines. The new agreement goes even further, eliminating doubts about his future before the 2025 season begins.
Watt’s Value to the Team Remains Undeniable
Watt’s leadership is critical to Pittsburgh’s defense. Team captain Cameron Heyward had publicly pushed for the team to keep Watt. He dismissed any trade rumors and highlighted Watt’s irreplaceable role on the field.
Although the end of the 2024 season was tough—Watt only recorded two sacks in the final five games—his legacy remains strong. He won NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 and has led the league in sacks for three seasons.
Steelers Look Ahead with Confidence
With T.J. Watt now locked in, the Steelers have secured a core piece of their defense. The team is preparing to bounce back in 2025 with one of the league’s most impactful defenders ready to lead the charge
