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The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed T.J. Watt to a record-breaking three-year, $123 million contract, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The deal, which includes $108 million guaranteed at signing, was finalized on Thursday (July 17), just days before the Steelers report to training camp. This agreement ends an offseason standoff between Watt and the team over his contract extension.
Watt, a seven-time Pro Bowler and five-time All-Pro, has been a dominant force since joining the Steelers as the 30th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. He led the league in sacks three times, tying Michael Strahan's single-season record of 22.5 sacks in 2021. Watt's career stats include 108 sacks, 225 quarterback hits, and 33 forced fumbles. Despite his individual success, the Steelers have yet to win a playoff game with Watt on the roster.
The new contract surpasses the previous record for a defender set by Cleveland's Myles Garrett and positions Watt as a key player for the Steelers' defense. The team, led by general manager Omar Khan, has made several significant moves this offseason, including signing quarterback Aaron Rodgers and trading for wide receiver DK Metcalf and cornerback Jalen Ramsey.
Watt's deal sets a high bar for other defenders seeking new contracts, such as Dallas Cowboys' Micah Parsons. As the Steelers prepare for the upcoming season, they hope Watt will continue to be a cornerstone of their defense and help end their playoff drought.